10 Must-know Business English Phrasal Verbs
In the world of business, being able to understand and use phrasal verbs is key to sounding natural and fluent. Phrasal verbs are combinations of verbs and particles (like “up,” “out,” or “off”) that often carry meanings beyond their literal definitions. Here are 10 common business English phrasal verbs, with explanations and example sentences to help you use them confidently in your work environment.
1. Bring Up
Explanation: To mention or introduce a topic in conversation or discussion.
Examples:
In the meeting, Sarah brought up the issue of staff shortages.
I’d like to bring up a suggestion for improving our workflow.
2. Call Off
Explanation: To cancel something that was planned, like a meeting or an event.
Examples:
We had to call off the conference due to low registration numbers.
The CEO decided to call off the product launch until next quarter.
3. Carry On
Explanation: To continue doing something, especially after an interruption.
Examples:
Let’s carry on with the presentation after the break.
Even though the budget was cut, the team carried on with the project.
4. Figure Out
Explanation: To understand something or find a solution after thinking about it.
Examples:
We need to figure out why sales dropped last quarter.
After reviewing the data, I finally figured out what went wrong.
5. Go Over
Explanation: To review or examine something carefully, usually in detail.
Examples:
Let’s go over the financial report before the meeting tomorrow.
The manager asked us to go over the proposal one more time before submitting it.
6. Look Into
Explanation: To investigate or research something.
Examples:
We’re looking into potential partnerships with overseas suppliers.
I’ll look into the issue and get back to you with more details.
7. Put Off
Explanation: To delay or postpone something until a later time.
Examples:
We can’t keep putting off this decision; it needs to be made today.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, they had to put off the launch until next month.
8. Set Up
Explanation: To arrange, organize, or start something, like a meeting or a business.
Examples:
I’ll set up a meeting with the client to discuss the contract.
She’s planning to set up her own consulting firm next year.
9. Take Over
Explanation: To assume control or responsibility for something, especially from someone else.
Examples:
John will take over as project manager when Susan leaves.
Our company is planning to take over a smaller competitor.
10. Turn Down
Explanation: To reject or decline something, such as an offer or request.
Examples:
The candidate turned down the job offer because the salary was too low.
Unfortunately, the board turned down our proposal for additional funding.
Final Thoughts
Mastering these business English phrasal verbs will help you communicate more naturally and effectively in professional settings. Phrasal verbs can be tricky, but practicing them in context and using them in your daily work conversations will build your confidence and fluency.
