unit 20: phrasal verbs

Back down

The government backed down on the tax increase.

To stop asking for something or stop saying you will do something due to opposition.

Blend in

The thief tried to blend in with the crowd.

To be similar to surroundings so you are not noticed.

Bring about

We are trying to bring about a peaceful solution.

To make something happen (especially change).

Crack down (on)

The police are cracking down on drug dealers.

To start dealing with something/someone much more strictly.

Get in

If the party gets in, they will lower taxes.

To be elected for a political job.

Get off

He was lucky to get off with just a small fine.

1. Not to be punished severely (or at all) for a crime.

Get off

I managed to get a few days off work.

2. To have a period of time as a holiday.

Get off

I must get those letters off today.

3. To send something by post.

Give in

The rebels were eventually forced to give in.

1. To stop arguing/competing because you cannot win.

Give in

I shouldn't eat chocolate, but I finally gave in.

2. To no longer control a feeling of wanting something.

Hit back

The actress hit back at the tabloid rumors.

1. To criticize someone who criticized you.

Hit back

If someone hits you, don't hit back.

2. To deliberately hurt someone who hurt you.

Lock up

He was locked up for ten years for armed robbery.

1. To put someone in prison.

Lock up

Don't forget to lock up when you leave the office.

2. To lock all doors/windows of a building.

Opt out (of)

You can opt out of the sports club if you want.

To decide not to take part in something.

Phase out

Plastic bags are being phased out.

To gradually stop using something.

Push around

You shouldn't let them push you around.

To tell someone what to do in an unfair/unpleasant way.

Single out

He was singled out for his bravery.

To choose one person/thing for special attention.

Stand up to

You must stand up to your boss.

Not to allow yourself to be treated badly (especially by authority).

Take over

The company was taken over by a multinational corporation.

1. To take control of something.

Take over

I'll take over the driving for a while.

2. To begin to do something someone else was doing.

Talk down to

I hate the way she talks down to her assistants.

To speak to someone as if they are not clever/important.