AWS. 55. I can understand metaphors in phrasal verbs

falling apart

1.The book’s falling apart 2.Things went downhill and her marriage fell apart. = had so many problems that it was impossible to continue existing (a relationship / sb's world falls apart).

The lift is going down

Their standards have gone down in recent months. = become worse in quality. The computer system has gone down. = stopped working temporarily.

The building is being knocked down

She knocked the price down by 15 per cent. INF = reduced the price by 15 per cent. knockdown ADJ (knockdown prices).

Goats feed on grain and grasses

Terrorism feeds on fear. = becomes stronger because of fear. (feed on sth is often DISAPPROVING.)

I soaked it up with a sponge

We wandered around, soaking up the atmosphere. = absorbing it into our senses, body, and mind (soak up the sun).

The water spilled over

The violence could spill over into neighbouring areas. = spread and begin to affect other areas. His emotions spilled over after his big win. = he was unable to control his emotions.

Stand back from the platform edge

You should stand back and consider your future. = think about it as if you are not involved in it.

You need to tighten up the screws

Airlines need to tighten up rules on baggage allowance. = make rules stricter or harder to avoid.

Turn the clock around/round

They turned the failing company round. = made it successful again. They can turn repairs around in a few days. = complete them in a few days.

She wrapped it up for me

The police have wrapped up the enquiry. = INF completed the enquiry (also wrap up a meeting / a deal).