Are you having trouble using phrasal verbs in your workplace?
Listen in today and learn phrases that you can use in the business setting.
Blocking off time
Michelle asks Lindsay if they can block off some time after recording to talk about episode ideas for next time.
Lindsay says she’ll block off time in her calendar for this.
The phrasal verb ‘block off’ is used often in business English.
It means reserving time for something.
Today’s question
Today’s episode is inspired by a listener question:
Hi guys! I really love u guys so much, I’ve been learning phrasal verbs and try to memorize them but it doesn’t even make any movement cause there are a lot new of phrasal verbs every day so do you guys have tips to learn phrasal verbs, for example using the word “off.”
Thanks,
Youssef
Useful phrasal verbs
Phrasal verbs can be tricky, which makes them one of the favorite topics of the All Ears English team.
Phrasal verbs are very important.
You can definitely use these in the workplace.
Learning new vocabulary helps you get to the next level in your English speaking skills.
With the right study habits, including listening to the All Ears English and Business English podcasts, you’ll achieve your English language goals in no time.
Check out episode BE 300: Don’t be Startled by Business English Vocabulary to build your vocabulary.
Phrasal verbs for work
Many phrasal verbs are especially useful at work.
Today we’ll share some phrasal verbs that are perfect for the workplace.
These will make your conversations more interesting and help you sound more like a native English speaker.
#1: Get off (something)
This means to leave or to exit.
This is frequently used when you’re talking to someone on the phone and you need to end the call.
Examples:
I need to get off the phone in a few minutes because the meeting is going to start.
I get off work in fifteen minutes, but I still have time for a quick meeting now.
#2: Log off
This can mean ending your time for the day.
It can also be used when signing out of a computer or a time keeping device.
Example:
Can you log off and meet me in my office in ten minutes?
#3: Block off
This is the phrasal verb that Lindsay and Michelle used in the beginning of this episode.
It basically means to reserve space in a schedule.
Examples:
Let’s block off some time at the end of the day for a quick check-in.
I can block off your schedule tomorrow morning so you can drop your daughter off at school.
#4: Put off
To put something off means to delay it to a later time or a different day.
This is used when someone needs more time to work or do something.
Example:
We can put off that project until we finish this phone call.
#5: Head off
This means to leave or go away.
Example:
I’m going to head off a little early today.
Roleplay
Lindsay and Michelle share a roleplay using the vocabulary shared in today’s episode.
In this scenario, Lindsay and Michelle are coworkers and it’s the end of the day.
They are planning for the next day.
Lindsay: Okay, so what’s the plan for tomorrow?
Michelle: Well I definitely think we should block off some time to talk about the Jolters account.
Lindsay: Oh definitely. We can’t put that off any longer. It’s really important.
Michelle: Okay, perfect. Ok I think I’m going to log off now.
Lindsay: Oh, what time do you get off?
Michelle: In ten minutes.
Lindsay: Oh I’m sorry I thought you were here until 5:30!
Michelle: No, it’s five.
Lindsay: Gotcha. I’m gonna head off soon too.
Michelle: Great!
Takeaway
These phrasal verbs shared in today’s episode are really useful.
Lindsay and Michelle gave examples to use these words in the business context.
Since these are very versatile, you can also use them in conversations with family and friends.
Use these terms and expressions to make stronger and new connections today!
What other phrasal verbs do you use at work?
We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
