6 tips for learning new phrasal verbs: Ask BBC Learning English

How can you learn new phrasal verbs without being overwhelmed?

That's what Alejandra wants to find out.

So my question is: How can I learn new phrasal verbs without freaking out?

That was Alejandra's question, but we want to hear from you.

So send us your questions to our email address.

Now let's get back to those tips for learning new phrasal verbs.

OK. Tip one.

Context is key.

You can learn new phrasal verbs in context by watching films, the news,

listening to music.

I've been stealing money from the company for years.

Nobody's noticed, so I think I've got away with it.

Oh, 'get away with',

That's a useful one.

Tip two. When you learn a new phrasal verb, don't forget to note it down.

And remember to include your own example sentence.

Tip three. Don't forget the grammar.

Find out if the phrasal verb you're learning needs an object.

Is it direct or indirect?

Can you separate the phrasal verb?

These things will help you be able to use the phrasal verb.

Tip four. Be selective.

Learn phrasal verbs that are important for your life and your interests,

and remember to personalise them.

I have a Spanish exam coming up,

so I'm going to read over my notes and brush up on my verbs.

Use it or lose it.

When you learn new phrasal verbs, use them when you're speaking,

when you're writing, on social media.

That way you'll be able to remember it.

Hey Beth, my birthday's coming up soon.

Have you thought about my present?

And one final tip. Remember, not all phrasal verbs are informal.

You can use them in work and business contexts too.

Right. We've had to bring forward the meeting as there's lots of data to go over,

but first I'll hand out the documents for you all to quickly look through.

I'll set up another meeting for later in the week.

That's all for now,

but check below for more information and I'll catch up with you very soon.