Separable vs Non-Separable Phrasal Verbs – Master the Rules
for SSC CGL, Banking, UPSC & All Competitive Exams
What are Phrasal Verbs?
Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and one or more particles (usually prepositions or adverbs) that create a meaning different from the original verb. They are common in English and can be challenging for learners because their meanings often cannot be deduced from the individual words. For example, "give up" means to quit or stop trying, which is different from the meanings of "give" or "up" on their own.
What are Separable Phrasal Verbs?
Separable phrasal verbs are a type of phrasal verb in which the particle can be separated from the verb and placed after the object. If the object is a pronoun, it must be placed between the verb and the particle. Here are 10 examples of separable phrasal verbs with explanations:
1. Turn off: When you "turn off" a light, you can say, "Turn the light off" or "Turn off the light." If using a pronoun, it becomes "Turn it off."
2. Pick up: "Pick up the book" can also be "Pick the book up." With a pronoun: "Pick it up."
3. Put on: "Put on your shoes" can also be "Put your shoes on." With a pronoun: "Put them on."
4. Take off: "Take off your hat" can be "Take your hat off." With a pronoun: "Take it off."
5. Call off: "Call off the meeting" can be "Call the meeting off." With a pronoun: "Call it off."
6. Bring up: "Bring up a topic" can be "Bring a topic up." With a pronoun: "Bring it up."
7. Give back: "Give back the money" can be "Give the money back." With a pronoun: "Give it back."
8. Write down: "Write down the address" can be "Write the address down." With a pronoun: "Write it down."
9. Set up: "Set up the equipment" can be "Set the equipment up." With a pronoun: "Set it up."
10. Put off: "Put off the meeting" can be "Put the meeting off." With a pronoun: "Put it off."
These examples illustrate how separable phrasal verbs can be flexible in their structure, allowing for the particle to be moved, especially when dealing with pronouns.
Before attempting this test, revise important grammar topics like phrasal verbs, vocabulary and one word substitution:
Here are 20 multiple-choice questions on phrasal verbs, including separable ones, along with explanations for each answer:
1. What does "give up" mean in the sentence: "She decided to give up smoking"?
A) Start
B) Continue
C) Quit
D) Discuss
Answer: C) Quit
Explanation: "Give up" is a phrasal verb meaning to stop doing something, often a habit or activity. In this context, it means to quit smoking.
2. Choose the correct meaning of "put off" in: "He put off his homework until later."
A) Delay
B) Complete
C) Begin
D) Hide
Answer: A) Delay
Explanation: "Put off" means to postpone or delay doing something.
3. What does "bring up" mean in: "She brought up an interesting point during the meeting"?
A) Ignore
B) Mention
C) Delete
D) Conceal
Answer: B) Mention
Explanation: "Bring up" refers to the act of mentioning or introducing a topic for discussion.
4. The phrase "look after" in "She looks after her younger brother" means:
A) Ignore
B) Care for
C) Look at
D) Leave
Answer: B) Care for
Explanation: "Look after" is a phrasal verb meaning to take care of someone or something.
5. In "He turned down the job offer," what does "turned down" mean?
A) Accepted
B) Rejected
C) Discussed
D) Created
Answer: B) Rejected
Explanation: "Turn down" means to refuse or reject something, such as an offer or a request.
6. What does "run into" mean in the phrase: "I ran into an old friend at the mall"?
A) Avoid
B) Meet by chance
C) Chase
D) Call
Answer: B) Meet by chance
Explanation: "Run into" means to meet someone unexpectedly or by accident.
7. In "She set up the equipment," what is the meaning of "set up"?
A) Dismantle
B) Arrange or assemble
C) Ignore
D) Destroy
Answer: B) Arrange or assemble
Explanation: "Set up" refers to arranging or assembling something so that it is ready for use.
8. What does "pick up" mean in the sentence: "I need to pick up my prescription from the pharmacy"?
A) Drop off
B) Collect
C) Throw away
D) Lose
Answer: B) Collect
Explanation: "Pick up" means to collect or retrieve something from a location.
9. The phrase "break down" in "The car broke down on the highway" means:
A) Accelerate
B) Function perfectly
C) Stop working
D) Speed up
Answer: C) Stop working
Explanation: "Break down" means to stop functioning, often used in reference to machines or vehicles.
10. In "She called off the meeting," what does "called off" mean?
A) Scheduled
B) Canceled
C) Attended
D) Postponed
Answer: B) Canceled
Explanation: "Call off" means to cancel an event or arrangement.
11. What does "take off" mean in "The plane took off on time"?
A) Landed
B) Departed
C) Delayed
D) Crashed
Answer: B) Departed
Explanation: "Take off" refers to an aircraft leaving the ground and starting to fly.
12. Choose the correct meaning of "turn up" in: "She turned up the volume on the radio."
A) Lowered
B) Increased
C) Muted
D) Ignored
Answer: B) Increased
Explanation: "Turn up" refers to increasing the level of something, such as volume or heat.
13. In "He looks up to his older brother," what does "looks up to" mean?
A) Disrespects
B) Ignores
C) Admires
D) Laughs at
Answer: C) Admires
Explanation: "Look up to" means to admire or respect someone.
14. What does "get over" mean in the sentence: "It took her a long time to get over the flu"?
A) Contract
B) Recover from
C) Spread
D) Avoid
Answer: B) Recover from
Explanation: "Get over" means to recover from an illness or a difficult situation.
15. The phrase "work out" in "They worked out a solution" means:
A) Ignored
B) Exercised
C) Developed
D) Complicated
Answer: C) Developed
Explanation: "Work out" in this context means to devise or develop a plan or solution.
16. In "She pointed out the error," what does "pointed out" mean?
A) Hid
B) Corrected
C) Indicated
D) Created
Answer: C) Indicated
Explanation: "Point out" means to indicate or draw attention to something.
17. What does "cut down on" mean in the sentence:
"He needs to cut down on sugar"?
A) Increase
B) Eliminate
C) Reduce
D) Replace
Answer: C) Reduce
Explanation: "Cut down on" means to reduce the amount or frequency of something.
18. Choose the correct meaning of "find out" in: "We need to find out more about the new policy."
A) Conceal
B) Discover
C) Ignore
D) Dismiss
Answer: B) Discover
Explanation: "Find out" means to discover or learn information.
19. In "They filled out the form," what does "filled out" mean?
A) Ignored
B) Completed
C) Misplaced
D) Deleted
Answer: B) Completed
Explanation: "Fill out" means to complete a form by providing the necessary information.
20. What does "back up" mean in the sentence: "You should back up your data regularly"?
A) Delete
B) Support
C) Save a copy
D) Ignore
Answer: C) Save a copy
Explanation: "Back up" refers to making a copy of data to prevent loss in case of failure.
What are inseparable phrasal verbs?
be separated by an object. This means that the object must always follow the entire phrasal verb, rather than being placed between the verb and the preposition/adverb. These types of verbs are important
in English because they often convey meanings that are not immediately obvious from the individual words.
Here are 10 examples of inseparable phrasal verbs with explanations:
1. Look into: This means to investigate or examine something more thoroughly. For example, "The police will look into the matter." Here, "look into" cannot be separated by the object "the matter."
2. Run into: This means to meet someone unexpectedly. For example, "I ran into an old friend at the mall." You cannot say "I ran an old friend into."
3. Get over: This means to recover from something, such as an illness or a difficult experience. For example, "She is trying to get over the flu." The object "the flu" follows "get over."
4. Come across: This means to find something or someone by chance. For example, "I came across an interesting book in the library." The structure remains intact with the object "an interesting book" following it.
5. Look after: This means to take care of someone or something. For example, "Can you look after my cat while I'm away?" The object "my cat" follows the phrasal verb.
6. Call on: This can mean to formally ask someone to speak or to visit someone. For example, "The teacher called on me to answer the question." The object "me" follows the phrasal verb.
7. Put up with: This means to tolerate or endure something unpleasant. For example, "I can't put up with the noise any longer." The object "the noise" comes after the phrasal verb.
8. Run out of: This means to use all of something and have none left. For example, "We have run out of milk." The phrase "run out of" cannot be split by the object "milk."
9. Look forward to: This means to anticipate something with pleasure. For example, "I look forward to the holidays." The object "the holidays" follows the entire phrasal verb.
10. Break into: This means to enter a place forcibly. For example, "Someone tried to break into the house." The object "the house" follows the phrasal verb.
Understanding inseparable phrasal verbs is essential for mastering English as they often appear in both written and spoken language.
Separable Phrasal Verbs
A phrasal verb = verb + particle(preposition/adverb)
Example: turn off, look after, give up
First and foremost, let's know about separable phrasal verb:
These can be split (object can come in between).
👉Structure:
Verb + Object + Particle
Verb + particle+ Object
Verb + particle+ Object
👉Examples:
Turn on the lights.
Turn the lights on
👉With pronouns (him, it, them) must be separated:
Turn it on✔️
Turn on it❌
Non - Separable Phrasal Verbs
These cannot be split.
👉Structure:
Verb + Particle + Object (always together)
Let's clarify this by the following examples:
Look after the baby✔️
Look the baby after❌
Run into a friend✔️
Run a friend into❌
The Smart Way to Master Separable & Non - Separable Phrasal Verbs
Now, the question is how to identify them
Check - separable phrasal verbs (can split)
We can check this through the following example:
Example: Turn on the light
Use the pronoun test: Turn it on✔️
Here, we have written " it" in place of " the light", so we can say it can split.
Check - non-separable phrasal verbs (can split)
We can check this through the following example:
Example: Look after the baby
Use the pronoun test: Look it after❌
Here, we have written "it" in place of " the baby ", so we can say it cannot split.
In dictionaries like Oxford Learner's Dictionaries or Cambridge Dictionary)
phrasal verbs are marked.
- (T) separable
- (I) inseparable
We can use the following methods to identify them:
Replace object with it/them:
If sentence becomes:
Verb + pronoun+ particle then it is separable 👉Turn it on
If it sounds wrong: 👉Look it after ❌ non-separable
Check the meaning
If the meaning is literal, sometimes it is separable
👉Take off your socks (you can separate)
If the meaning is idiomatic (fixed meaning) often non-separable
👉Look after = take care of (cannot separate)
Phrasal verbs, a combination of a verb and one or more particles (such as prepositions or adverbs),
can be tricky to master due to their various forms and meanings. Understanding the difference between separable and inseparable phrasal verbs is crucial for proper usage.
What are non- separable phrasal verbs?
Non-separable phrasal verbs are those in which the verb and the particle must remain together and cannot be split by inserting an object. For example, in the phrasal verb "run into," meaning to encounter someone unexpectedly, you cannot separate "run" and "into" by placing an object between them. You would say, "I ran into an old friend," not "I ran an old friend into."
In contrast, separable phrasal verbs allow for flexibility in structure. These verbs enable the object to
be placed between the verb and the particle. For instance, with "turn off," as in "turn off the lights," you can either say "turn the lights off" or "turn off the lights." If the object is a pronoun, it must be placed between the verb and the particle (e.g., "turn them off," not "turn off them").
To identify whether a phrasal verb is separable or inseparable, you should often need to rely on memorization and practice, as there are no strict rules covering all cases. Consulting a dictionary or phrasal verb list can provide guidance, as these often indicate the verb type and possible constructions.
Here are 15 multiple-choice questions focusing on non-separable and inseparable phrasal verbs, complete with options and detailed explanations for each answer:
1. Which phrasal verb means "to take care of"?
a) look up
b) look after
c) look over
d) look into
Answer: b) look after
Explanation: "Look after" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to care for someone or something. It cannot be split by an object.
2. What does "run into" mean?
a) to encounter unexpectedly
b) to manage
c) to explain
d) to solve
Answer: a) to encounter unexpectedly
Explanation: "Run into" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to meet someone unexpectedly.
3. Choose the phrasal verb that means "to proceed or continue."
a) take up
b) go on
c) put away
d) turn off
Answer: b) go on
Explanation: "Go on" is an inseparable phrasal verb used to indicate the continuation of an action.
4. Which phrasal verb means "to rely on"?
a) count on
b) pass out
c) break down
d) turn in
Answer: a) count on
Explanation: "Count on" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to depend or rely on someone or something.
5. What does "come across" mean?
a) to submit
b) to find unexpectedly
c) to reject
d) to discuss
Answer: b) to find unexpectedly
Explanation: "Come across" is an inseparable phrasal verb that means to find something by chance.
6. Which phrasal verb means "to tolerate"?
a) put up with
b) take off
c) give up
d) set aside
Answer: a) put up with
Explanation: "Put up with" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to tolerate or endure something unpleasant.
7. What does "get over" mean?
a) to create
b) to recover from
c) to establish
d) to eliminate
Answer: b) to recover from
Explanation: "Get over" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to recover from an illness, shock, or problem.
8. Which phrasal verb means "to continue"?
a) put off
b) keep on
c) take in
d) look out
Answer: b) keep on
Explanation: "Keep on" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to continue doing something.
9. What does "run out of" mean?
a) to escape
b) to deplete
c) to repair
d) to criticize
Answer: b) to deplete
Explanation: "Run out of" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to exhaust a supply of something.
10. Which phrasal verb means "to find time to do"?
a) call off
b) get around to
c) pass away
d) turn out
Answer: b) get around to
Explanation: "Get around to" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to finally do something after putting it off.
11. What does "give in" mean?
a) to surrender
b) to withstand
c) to create
d) to illuminate
Answer: a) to surrender
Explanation: "Give in" is an inseparable phrasal verb that means to yield or surrender.
12. Which phrasal verb means "to investigate"?
a) look into
b) take in
c) bring about
d) cut down
Answer: a) look into
Explanation: "Look into" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to examine or investigate
something.
13. What does "break down" mean when referring to machinery?
a) to function well
b) to stop working
c) to speed up
d) to clarify
Answer: b) to stop working
Explanation: "Break down" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to stop functioning, usually referring to machines.
14. Which phrasal verb means "to warn someone"?
a) look down
b) call off
c) watch out
d) run over
Answer: c) watch out
Explanation: "Watch out" is an inseparable phrasal verb used to caution someone to be careful.
15. What does "take after" mean?
a) to look after
b) to resemble
c) to remove
d) to postpone
Answer: b) to resemble
Explanation: "Take after" is an inseparable phrasal verb meaning to resemble a family member in appearance or behavior.
Your Burning Questions About Phrasal Verbs - Answered
Why do phrasal verbs confuse so many aspirants?
Phrasal verbs often confuse language learners because they are idiomatic expressions that combine verbs with prepositions or adverbs, where the meaning is not always directly derived from the individual words. This means that the literal meanings of the words do not always correspond to the phrasal verb's overall meaning, making them difficult to interpret and memorize.
For instance, consider the phrasal verb “give up.” Individually, “give” means to hand over something, and “up” typically refers to direction. However, together, “give up” means to quit or stop trying, which is not immediately obvious from the individual words. Similarly, “look up” can mean to literally gaze upwards, but as a phrasal verb, it often means to search for information, such as in a dictionary. This non-literal, unpredictable nature requires learners to memorize phrasal verbs as distinct units rather than logical combinations of words, which can be challenging. Additionally, some phrasal verbs can have multiple meanings depending on the context, such as “take off,” which can mean to remove clothing or for an airplane to ascend, adding another layer of complexity.
Are phrasal verbs tested directly in exams?
Phrasal verbs, which are combinations of verbs with prepositions or adverbs that create a meaning different from the original verb, are indeed often tested directly in language exams, particularly in English proficiency tests like the TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge exams. These tests assess a candidate's grasp of idiomatic expressions, which are crucial for understanding and using English fluently.
For example, a test might ask candidates to choose the correct phrasal verb to complete a sentence: “She’s looking ___ the children while their parents are away.” Here, the correct choice would be “after,” forming the phrasal verb “look after,” which means to take care of. Additionally, exams might include sections where students are asked to transform sentences by using phrasal verbs or to provide synonyms or explanations for given phrasal verbs. For instance, if presented with the sentence "He abandoned the idea," students might be asked to rewrite it using a phrasal verb, resulting in "He gave up the idea."
Understanding phrasal verbs is crucial because they are frequently used in both spoken and written English and mastering them can significantly enhance a learner's ability to communicate effectively. Therefore, language exams often include exercises focused on these to ensure that students have a comprehensive understanding of English usage.
How can the candidates remember so many phrasal verbs?
Candidates can remember phrasal verbs by employing a variety of memory techniques and practice strategies. One effective method is to create associations between the phrasal verb and a memorable context or image. For example, the phrasal verb "break down" can be visualized as a car breaking down on the side of the road. By associating the verb with a vivid image or personal experience, candidates can more easily recall its meaning and usage.
Another strategy is to group phrasal verbs by common themes or particles. For instance, phrasal verbs with the particle "up" often imply an increase or completion, such as "build up" (to accumulate) and "use up" (to consume completely). By understanding these patterns, candidates can more easily predict and remember the meanings of new phrasal verbs they encounter.
Repetition and regular practice are also crucial. Engaging in activities like flashcards, quizzes, or writing sentences using new phrasal verbs can reinforce memory. Language immersion, such as conversing with native speakers or consuming media in English, allows candidates to see phrasal verbs in context, further aiding retention.
Lastly, using mnemonic devices or creating stories that incorporate several phrasal verbs can also be beneficial. For example, crafting a narrative where a character "wakes up," "gets dressed," and "heads out" can help solidify the sequence of actions and their associated phrasal verbs. Through these techniques, candidates can enhance their ability to remember and effectively use phrasal verbs in conversation and writing.
Is it necessary to use phrasal verbs in descriptive writing?
Phrasal verbs can be a valuable tool in descriptive writing, but they are not strictly necessary. They often add a conversational tone and can make descriptions more vivid and dynamic. However, their use depends on the tone and style you want to achieve. For example, in a casual or informal piece, using phrasal verbs like “look up” or “run into” can make the narrative feel more relatable and engaging. Consider the sentence: “The sun began to come up over the horizon, casting a warm glow.” Here, “come up” adds a sense of gradual emergence and movement.
Conversely, in more formal or literary writing, you might choose precise verbs to convey the same idea. Instead of saying “The sun came up,” you might say “The sun rose,” which can lend a more polished and sophisticated tone. Ultimately, whether to use phrasal verbs depends on the desired style and audience. Mixing both phrasal verbs and more traditional verbs can enrich your writing, offering texture and variety.
How many types of phrasal verbs are there in English Grammar?
In English grammar, phrasal verbs can be classified into several types based on their structure and the role of the particles or prepositions that accompany the main verb. Here are the primary types:
1. Transitive Phrasal Verbs: These require a direct object to complete their meaning. For example, "turn off" in "She turned off the lights." Here, "the lights" is the direct object.
2. Intransitive Phrasal Verbs: These do not require a direct object. For example, "wake up" in "He wakes up early."
3. Separable Phrasal Verbs: In these, the object can be placed between the verb and the particle. For instance, "turn off" can be used as "She turned the lights off."
4. Inseparable Phrasal Verbs: These do not allow the object to be placed between the verb and the particle. For example, "look after" in "She looks after her brother" cannot be separated as "She looks her brother after."
5. Three-Word Phrasal Verbs: These consist of a verb followed by two particles, which can be prepositions or adverbs. For example, "get away with" in "He got away with the mistake."
Understanding these types helps in determining how to use phrasal verbs correctly in sentences, as their meanings often change significantly based on the particles used.
