Phrasal Verbs for Argument: A Comprehensive Guide for English Learners
Phrasal verbs are an essential part of English, especially when discussing arguments or debates. They consist of a verb and one or more particles (prepositions or adverbs) that change the meaning of the original verb. Mastering these will help you sound more natural in discussions and disagreements. Below is a detailed list of common phrasal verbs used in arguments, along with their meanings, examples, and exercises.
1. Argue out
Meaning: To discuss something thoroughly to reach a conclusion or agreement.
- They argued out the details of the contract before signing.
- We need to argue out this issue before making a decision.
- The team argued out the best strategy for the project.
2. Back down
Meaning: To withdraw from a position or opinion in an argument.
- After a long debate, he finally backed down and admitted he was wrong.
- She refused to back down from her stance on environmental issues.
- The company backed down after facing public criticism.
3. Fall out
Meaning: To have a disagreement that leads to a strained relationship.
- They fell out over money and stopped speaking to each other.
- She fell out with her best friend after the argument.
- The siblings fell out but later reconciled.
4. Talk over
Meaning: To discuss something thoroughly, often to resolve a disagreement.
- Let’s talk over the problem before making any decisions.
- They talked over their differences and reached a compromise.
- We should talk over the plan with the team first.
5. Stand up for
Meaning: To defend or support someone or something in an argument.
- She always stands up for her beliefs, no matter what.
- He stood up for his colleague during the meeting.
- It’s important to stand up for what is right.
6. Give in
Meaning: To yield or surrender in an argument or conflict.
- After hours of debate, she finally gave in and agreed.
- He refused to give in to their demands.
- Parents often give in when their children insist.
7. Call out
Meaning: To challenge or confront someone about their behavior or statements.
- She called him out for lying during the discussion.
- The journalist called out the politician’s false claims.
- He was called out for his rude comments.
8. Walk out
Meaning: To leave abruptly as a protest or due to anger.
- He walked out of the meeting when the argument got heated.
- The employees walked out in protest of unfair treatment.
- She walked out after they refused to listen to her.
9. Work out
Meaning: To resolve a problem or disagreement through discussion.
- They managed to work out their differences peacefully.
- Let’s try to work out a solution together.
- The couple worked out their issues with counseling.
10. Break off
Meaning: To end a discussion or relationship abruptly.
- They broke off negotiations after failing to agree.
- She broke off the conversation when it became too intense.
- The two countries broke off diplomatic relations.
Exercises
Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct phrasal verb from the list above.
- After a long debate, they finally __________ and reached a compromise.
- She refused to __________ even when everyone disagreed with her.
- They __________ over a minor issue and stopped talking for weeks.
- He __________ his friend when others criticized him unfairly.
- The angry customer __________ of the store without buying anything.
Exercise 2: Match the Phrasal Verb with Its Meaning
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1. Back down | A. To defend or support someone |
| 2. Stand up for | B. To withdraw from an argument |
| 3. Call out | C. To challenge someone’s behavior |
| 4. Give in | D. To yield in an argument |
| 5. Walk out | E. To leave abruptly in protest |
Answer Key
Exercise 1 Answers:
- worked out
- back down
- fell out
- stood up for
- walked out
Exercise 2 Answers:
| Phrasal Verb | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. Back down | B |
| 2. Stand up for | A |
| 3. Call out | C |
| 4. Give in | D |
| 5. Walk out | E |