In last week’s post we talked about the use of phrasal verbs in formal languages and how they can be used to improve your writing activities. Today we will be discussing the use of phrasal verbs in more informal writing exercises.
As we have said before, phrasal verbs are structures made up of a verb and either a preposition or an adverb which often gives the verb a different meaning to the verb. Phrasal verbs are commonly used in informal situations and so feel free to use these expressions when writing letters or emails to friends or family members to make your responses appear more natural and authentic.
Here are some examples of phrasal verbs that can be used in informal contexts:
- Hang out
Definition: To spend time relaxing or socializing.
Example: Let's hang out at the park this weekend.
- Catch up
Definition: To get up to date with someone or something.
Example: We should catch up soon; I want to hear all about your trip!
- Drop by
Definition: To visit someone casually or unexpectedly.
Example: Feel free to drop by my place anytime you’re in the neighbourhood.
- Run into
Definition: To meet someone unexpectedly.
Example: I ran into an old friend from school at the grocery store yesterday.
- Get together
Definition: To meet or gather with others socially.
Example: We’re planning to get together for dinner on Friday.
- Figure out
Definition: To understand or solve something.
Example: I finally figured out how to fix the TV.
- Show up
Definition: To arrive or appear at a place.
Example: He didn’t show up to the party until after midnight.
- Turn up
Definition: To appear or be found, often unexpectedly.
Example: My keys turned up in the car after I searched the entire house.
- Mess up
Definition: To make a mistake or do something poorly.
Example: I really messed up the presentation by forgetting my notes.
- Give up
Definition: To stop trying or quit something.
Example: I’m not going to give up on this project, no matter how hard it gets.
These phrasal verbs are commonly used in everyday, informal conversations and are perfect for casual settings.
If you want to practise using these structures in an informal context then take a look at the writing exercise in the worksheet and try to use some of the phrasal verbs from this post in your response.
In case you missed last week’s post on using phrasal verbs in formal writing exercises then give it a read to give you a complete understanding of phrasal verbs at an advanced level.
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