Fall in , look forward to, break down are all examples of phrasal verbs. Phrasal verbs are an essential aspect of the English language, but they can be very difficult for non-native speakers to understand. A phrasal verb includes a verb followed by a preposition (or sometimes an adverb).

Many times phrasal verbs create a meaning that often changes the sense of the verb a lot. For example look forward to means to be excited about a future event. I'm really looking forward to the weekend. I'm so ready to relax. This meaning really has nothing to do with the verb to look.

Why phrasal verbs are important

• Natural conversation: Phrasal verbs are a common feature of everyday English. Using them helps your speech sound more natural and conversational. For example instead of saying: I'm returning to the office you could say I'm coming back to the office. Come back is a phrasal verb that means return and sounds much more natural and native.
• Richer Vocabulary: Learning phrasal verbs expands your vocabulary. Instead of relying on basic verbs, you can express yourself more precisely, adding nuance and depth to your language.
• Listening Comprehension Skills: While watching, for example Netflix if someone uses an unfamiliar phrasal verb you will immediately be confused. If you progress with learning more and more phrasal verbs your listening comprehension skills will definitely improve.

How to Learn and Use Phrasal Verbs

• Start Small: Begin with common, everyday phrasal verbs. For instance, "turn on," "take off," "give up." Learn their meanings, and try to use them in context.
• Keep a Phrasal Verb Diary: Challenge yourself to practice 5 phrasal verbs a week. You don't want to do too many because it's easy to forget or confuse them. Immediately after having learned them, teach them. The best way to learn is to teach.
• Use Mnemonics: Create associations or images in your mind to remember phrasal verbs. For example, for the phrasal verb call off, (which means to cancel) imagine someone canceling a meeting by making a phone call.
• Practice and Consistency: You need to practice your 5 phrasal verbs every day for the entire week. Write down examples using them, say them and teach them to 3 or 4 people. Also, make the learning personal. For example think about the year you fell in love with your husband or wife.
• Go to the phrasal verbs section of English in Eight Minutes. There you will find a video and phrasal verbs with accompanying exercises.

Below is your starter list. Start with these 5 verbs. Work hard and good luck.

• Take off: To remove something (e.g., "She took off her coat.")
• Turn on: To activate or start something (e.g., "Turn on the lights.").
• Give up: To quit or stop doing something (e.g., "Don't give up on your dreams.").
• Look up: To search for information (e.g., "I'll look up that word in the dictionary.").
• Get along: To have a good relationship with someone (e.g., "I get along well with my colleagues.").