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Prepositional Verbs Versus Phrasal Verbs
Prepositional verbs and phrasal verbs are both types of multi-word verbs, but they differ in how they are formed and the role of the components. Here's the difference:
1. Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs consist of a main verb and one or more particles (usually prepositions or adverbs). The particle(s) change(s) the meaning of the main verb. The verb and particles create a phrase with a new idiomatic meaning.
Example:
TAKE OFF = to become airborne (verb: "take," particle: "off")
The plane has just taken off.
The meaning of "take off" differs from the individual meanings of "take" and "off." The combination of the verb and particle creates a new meaning.
KEEP UP WITH something = to stay informed or updated about something (verb: "keep," particle: "up," preposition "with")
She reads the news every day to keep up with current events in the world.
The meaning of "keep up with" differs from the individual meanings of "keep," "up," and "with." Together the verb and particles create a unique meaning.
2. Prepositional Verbs
Prepositional verbs consist of a main verb and a preposition, which work together to convey a specific meaning. The preposition is typically followed by a noun or pronoun. The preposition in a prepositional verb does not change the verb's meaning but rather adds a specific detail.
Example:
COMPLAIN ABOUT something (verb: "complain," preposition: "about")
Many of our clients have recently complained about poor customer service.
The meaning of "complain about" doesn't really differ from the meaning of the verb "complain," but rather adds a detail, introducing the reason why someone complained.
ACCUSE OF something = (verb: "accuse," preposition: "of")
He was accused of stealing his coworker's laptop, but he denied any involvement.
The meaning of "accuse of" doesn't really differ from the meaning of the verb "accuse," but rather adds details, saying what the reason for the accusation was.
The key distinction between phrasal and prepositional verbs is that phrasal verbs involve adverbs or prepositions that alter the meaning of the main verb, often in an idiomatic way. On the other hand, prepositional verbs involve a preposition and an object that complement the main verb without altering its meaning as drastically as phrasal verbs.
20 Essential Prepositional Verbs, Exercises and a Quiz
Let's look at other examples of prepositional verbs.
Part 1. Match the verbs below with their prepositions:
Complete the gaps in the sentences with the correct preposition or the correct form of verb:
We collaborate ___ industry leaders to stay competitive and to innovate.
We comply ___ all regulatory requirements to ensure our business operates ethically.
We ______ for excellence in customer service to maintain a strong reputation.
They rely ___ data-driven decisions for strategic planning.
Her dedication and hard work allowed her to _____ in her career goals.
A healthy lifestyle _____ to a longer and happier life.
He longs ___ the simplicity of his childhood, free from the complexities of adult life.
Part 2. Match the verbs below with their prepositions:
Match the verbs with their definitions:
BENEFIT FROM | A. to resolve differences and reestablish a positive relationship |
CONFORM TO | B. to have ambitious goals or desires |
DEVIATE FROM | C. to take part in an activity or event |
COPE WITH | D. to do something in differently, for ex., from the expected or standard course or behavior |
ASPIRE TO | E. to have a discussion with someone, especially to seek advice or make decisions |
ACQUIESCE IN | F. to gain an advantage from a particular situation |
RECONCILE WITH | G. to say you're sorry for something |
CONFER WITH | H. to follow established rules or standards or expectations |
PARTICIPATE IN | I. to effectively manage challenging situations |
APOLOGIZE FOR | J. to passively agree to something |
QUIZ - 20 Prepositional Verbs
See the downloadable worksheet below:
Answers:
Part 1.
Complete the gaps in the sentences:
We collaborate WITH industry leaders to stay competitive and to innovate.
We comply WITH all regulatory requirements to ensure our business operates ethically.
We STRIVE for excellence in customer service to maintain a strong reputation.
They rely ON data-driven decisions for strategic planning.
Her dedication and hard work allowed her to SUCCEED in her career goals.
A healthy lifestyle LEADS to a longer and happier life.
He longs FOR the simplicity of his childhood, free from the complexities of adult life.
Part 2.
Match with the definitions:
BENEFIT FROM - F
CONFORM TO - H
DEVIATE FROM - D
COPE WITH - I
ASPIRE TO - B
ACQUIESCE IN - J
RECONCILE WITH - A
CONFER WITH - E
PARTICIPATE IN - C
APOLOGIZE FOR - G
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