Lesson 15: Phrasal Verbs for Writing
Phrasal verbs are not only useful for speaking but also for writing. They can help you express ideas more clearly and naturally. In this lesson, we’ll focus on phrasal verbs commonly used in writing contexts, such as essays, emails, reports, and creative writing.
1. Write down
- Meaning: To record something in writing.
- Example: “Make sure to write down the key points from the lecture.”
2. Fill in
- Meaning: To complete a form or document by adding information.
- Example: “Please fill in the application form and submit it by Friday.”
3. Cross out
- Meaning: To draw a line through something written to delete it.
- Example: “I crossed out the incorrect answer and wrote the correct one.”
4. Note down
- Meaning: To write something quickly for future reference.
- Example: “She noted down the important dates in her planner.”
5. Jot down
- Meaning: To write something briefly or quickly.
- Example: “I jotted down some ideas for the project during the meeting.”
6. Set down
- Meaning: To write or record something formally.
- Example: “The rules were set down in the official document.”
7. Take down
- Meaning: To write something spoken, such as notes or dictation.
- Example: “The secretary took down everything the manager said.”
8. Put together
- Meaning: To create or organize something, such as a report or essay.
- Example: “We need to put together a proposal by next week.”
9. Break down
- Meaning: To separate something into smaller parts, especially in writing.
- Example: “The report breaks down the data into three main categories.”
10. Sum up
- Meaning: To summarize or give a brief overview in writing.
- Example: “At the end of the essay, I summed up the main arguments.”
11. Point out
- Meaning: To highlight or emphasize something in writing.
- Example: “The author pointed out the flaws in the research methodology.”
12. Cross off
- Meaning: To remove something from a list by marking it.
- Example: “I crossed off the completed tasks from my to-do list.”
13. Write up
- Meaning: To prepare a formal or detailed written document.
- Example: “After the experiment, we wrote up the results in a report.”
14. Polish up
- Meaning: To improve or refine a piece of writing.
- Example: “I need to polish up my essay before submitting it.”
15. Leave out
- Meaning: To omit or exclude something from writing.
- Example: “Make sure not to leave out any important details in your report.”
Practice Activity:
- Fill in the blanks with the correct phrasal verb:
- “Can you ______ the main points of the meeting?”
- “I need to ______ this draft before sending it to the editor.”
- “Don’t forget to ______ your name on the form.”
- Writing Task: Write a short paragraph (5-7 sentences) about a recent event or experience. Use at least 3 phrasal verbs from the list above.
By incorporating these phrasal verbs into your writing, you can make your work more dynamic and engaging. Keep practicing to improve your fluency and confidence!