The Meaning of Particles
The sheer volume of phrasal verbs can be enough to put anyone off trying to learn them, especially when it often seems there are no rules behind them and that they all have random meanings. However, it can be useful to focus on the particle in particular (i.e. the preposition or adverb) as this is helpful in understanding the meaning, since there are some patterns to fall back on.
Take a look at the following examples. Each pair of sentences has the same missing particle conveying the same idea. Try and guess the particle before turning over the card to see if you’re right.
Now you’ve had the opportunity to think about the possible meanings of particles, let’s take a look at some more examples. Using the knowledge you’ve now acquired, place the particles below into their correct sentences. Some of the examples might be a little tricky so we encourage you to use the tips provided as well as the cards above as you progress.