Common phrasal verbs in English

In this lesson, you will discover the meanings of some common phrasal verbs:

• carry out
• carry on
• call off
• call back
• fill out
• hold on
• sort out
• hand in

carry out something

= to perform an action.
= to finish a task.

Examples:

We need to carry out more research on the effects of pollution.
The doctor carried out an x-ray on the patient.

carry on

= to continue an activity.

Form: carry on + ING form

Examples:

I told him to rest, but he carried on running!

Teacher: The lesson isn’t over yet. Carry on reading.

Jane: What are your plans for tomorrow?
Mark: I’m going to carry on painting the living room.

call off something

= to decide that a scheduled event will not take place.
= to stop an activity because it is no longer viable or feasible.
= to cancel an event.

Examples:

They have called off the football match due to bad weather. (active voice)
The football match has been called off due to bad weather. (passive voice)

Jane and Mark have called off the wedding.

The concert has been called off. (passive voice)

call someone back

= to return a phone call to someone who has called you.

Examples:

Jane: Hi Sarah, how are you?
Sarah: Hi Jane. I’m busy. I will call you back later.

Mark: Did you call the company about the job?
David: Yes, but they didn’t call me back.

fill out a form

= to complete a form by providing information in the blank spaces.

Examples:

Please fill out the application form.

I filled out a form for life insurance.

hold on

= to wait for a short period.

Examples:

Mark: Are you ready to go out?
Jane: No, hold on for a few minutes.

It’s raining. Hold on, I’ll get my umbrella.

Dentist: When are you available for the appointment?
Patient: Hold on please, I’ll check my diary.

sort out something

= to resolve a problem or manage a difficult situation.

Examples:

We need to sort out the issue with the printer.

Mark: There is an electrical problem.
Electrician: Don’t worry. I will sort it out.

hand in something

= to submit something to a person in authority.

Examples:

Teacher: Don’t forget to hand in your answer sheet.

We handed in the keys at reception.

I found a wallet on the train. I handed it in at the station.

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