TOEFL Phrasal Verb Practice

Introduction

This list of phrasal verbs is not exhaustive by any measure, and just because a particular phrasal verb is categorized in one way does not mean that it is never used in a different way. Indeed, there will be some duplicated phrasal verbs in this list, and not every definition for every phrasal verb is listed here.

Intransitive Verb: A verb which is not followed by an object (noun).

Examples: To smile, to die, to come, to look, to stand, to run

Example of Usage: Elizabeth sings so well.

Transitive Verb: A verb which is followed by an object (noun).

Examples: To break, to catch, to get, to carry, to like, to want

Example of Usage: I always enjoy music and will listen to any kind.

Particle: A word which is connected to the preceding verb in both meaning and grammar AND is not followed by a noun.

Examples: Down, up, about, out, on, ahead

Examples of Usage: The architect and the contractor will talk over the plans. (Noun after Transitive Verb + Particle) A conscientious student always tries to stand out. (Intransitive Verb + Particle)

Preposition: A word which connects the verb and noun phrase which follows the preposition; the preposition is connected to the verb in meaning only and is connected to the noun phrase in grammar.

Examples: With, to, for, on, over, across

Example of Usage: I promise to meet you after school. (Noun after Preposition)

Key Rules to Remember

1. A noun must always follow a preposition, a transitive verb, or a transitive verb with a particle.
2. Intransitive verbs, or intransitive verbs with particles do not require a noun to follow them.
3. Sometimes a noun will follow an intransitive verb or an intransitive verb with a particle, but it is not grammatically necessary.