Phrasal verbs: They’re like the rebellious teenagers of English grammar. Not only do they change meaning depending on the preposition or adverb they pair with, but they also have their own set of rules for word order that can trip up even the most dedicated language learners.
Why does “turn it off” sound right but “turn off it” make English speakers cringe? Why can you “give up your dream” or “give your dream up” but not “look after your pet” and “look your pet after”? The answer lies in whether the phrasal verb is separable or inseparable.
In this guide, we’ll demystify the rules of word order with phrasal verbs, give you practical tips to use them smoothly, and make sure you know how to avoid common mistakes. Let’s break it down (not break down it) and learn!
1. Separable vs. Inseparable Phrasal Verbs
The first thing you need to know is that phrasal verbs come in two main types: separable and inseparable. And yes, understanding the difference is key to getting the word order right!
2. Separable Phrasal Verbs
With separable phrasal verbs, you can split the verb and the particle (preposition or adverb) and put the object in between.
- Example: Turn off the TV. / Turn the TV off.
Important Rule: If the object is a pronoun (like it, him, her, them), it must go between the verb and the particle.
- Correct: Turn it off.
- Incorrect: Turn off it.
Common Separable Phrasal Verbs:
- Turn off: Turn off the lights. / Turn the lights off.
- Pick up: Pick up your clothes. / Pick your clothes up.
- Give back: Give back the book. / Give the book back.
Practical Tip: When in doubt, try both word orders. If it sounds better with the object between the verb and the particle, you’re probably dealing with a separable phrasal verb.
3. Inseparable Phrasal Verbs
Inseparable phrasal verbs cannot be split. The verb and particle must stay together, and the object always comes after the entire phrase.
- Example: Look after your little brother. (NOT Look your little brother after)
Common Inseparable Phrasal Verbs:
- Look after: I need to look after my dog.
- Run into: I ran into an old friend yesterday.
- Get over: She’s trying to get over her fear of spiders.
Practical Tip: If splitting the verb and particle sounds strange, keep them together! Inseparable phrasal verbs are loyal pairs and like to stick close.
4. Three-Word Phrasal Verbs
Three-word phrasal verbs (verb + two particles) are always inseparable. No exceptions!
- Examples:
- Look forward to: I look forward to the weekend.
- Put up with: How do you put up with the noise?
- Get away with: He got away with cheating on the test.
Practical Tip: Think of three-word phrasal verbs as a “phrase package” that shouldn’t be split apart. They’re like a group of friends who do everything together!
5. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Phrasal verbs can be tricky, but here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
Mistake #1: Splitting Inseparable Phrasal Verbs
- Incorrect: I need to look my dog after.
- Correct: I need to look after my dog.
Tip: If the phrasal verb doesn’t sound right when split, keep it together!
Mistake #2: Putting Pronouns in the Wrong Place with Separable Phrasal Verbs
- Incorrect: Turn off it.
- Correct: Turn it off.
Tip: Always place pronouns between the verb and the particle for separable phrasal verbs.
Mistake #3: Overthinking Three-Word Phrasal Verbs
- Incorrect: She looks forward the party to.
- Correct: She looks forward to the party.
Tip: Remember that three-word phrasal verbs are inseparable and always stay in the same order.
6. Quick Recap Table: Word Order with Phrasal Verbs
| Phrasal Verb Type | Rule | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Separable | Object can go between or after | Pick up the phone. / Pick the phone up. |
| Separable (with Pronoun) | Pronoun must go between | Pick it up. (NOT Pick up it) |
| Inseparable | Object always comes after | Look after the kids. (NOT Look the kids after) |
| Three-Word | Always inseparable | I can’t put up with this weather. |
Conclusion: You’re Ready to Conquer Phrasal Verb Word Order!
Congratulations! You’ve cracked the code of word order with phrasal verbs. Remember, separable phrasal verbs give you more flexibility, but inseparable ones are strict about sticking together. Practice using them in conversation, and soon you’ll sound as smooth as a native English speaker.
Keep experimenting and having fun with phrasal verbs—you’ve got this! Happy speaking and writing!