The English language is full of two-word verbs:
verb-preposition combinations that are used in place of a single verb.
These can be especially confusing for non-native speakers. Each sentence that
follows uses a verb-preposition combination. The combinations are bolded and
then defined in the parentheses that follow each one. Many writers avoid these
combinations, simply because they are confusing, and use the single-word
equivalent instead.
The couple broke up (separated).
The elevator broke down (stopped working) this morning.
Competition brings out (reveals) his best work.
I hate to bring up (raise) such a touchy subject.
Please call if anything comes up (arises).
Tell us how the game came out (ended).
The losing army finally gave up (surrendered).
We don’t give out (dispense) that kind of information.
Eventually, the suspect began to open up (reveal).
Don’t pass up (overlook) this opportunity.
The boys tried to put out (extinguish) the fire.
It’s hard to put up with (tolerate) incompetence.
I think I’ll sit out (rest) during the next match.
This product should stand up (last) under extreme heat.
We don’t like it when you talk down (condescend) to us.
Will they turn down (reject) our request?
I think I’ll turn in (retire) for the night.
My time and money is all used up (consumed).
The wolf walked into (entered) the trap.
Don’t walk out (leave) on us now!
I’ll work up (develop) a proposal for you.
Write down (record) everything you remember from that conversation.
Can you write in (include) a clause about late payment?