U N I T 7 .

2
Open your books in
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 Verb phrases
In English, many verbs are followed by prepositions and
adverbs. In some cases these combinations are called ‘phrasal
verbs’, while in other cases they are prepositional verbs.

Some verbs need a preposition before an object or another

verb. The preposition is only grammatical, so it doesn't change
the meaning of the verb.
Here are some of the prepositions most
commonly used with verbs:
for
to
about
with Verb phrases
of
in
at
on
from
Verbs with "for"
They're waiting for a bus.
He apologised for being late.
I applied for the job but I didn't get it.
How do you ask for a coffee in Polish?
I can't go out tonight because I have to prepare for my interview
tomorrow.
Verbs with "from"
This spray should protect you from mosquitoes.
Has he recovered from the accident yet?
She won an award because she saved someone from drowning.
I suffer from allergies.
Verbs with "in"
She doesn't believe in coincidences.
Our company specialises in computer software.
You have to work hard if you want to succeed in life.
Verbs with "of"
I don't approve of hunting animals for their fur.
Our dog died of old age.
This shampoo smells of bananas.
Verbs with "on"
Their decision will depend on the test results.
The film is based on the novel by Boris Pasternak.
If you make so much noise, I can't concentrate on my work.
Come on! We're relying on you!
We don't agree on anything but we're still good friends.
Verbs with "to"
What kind of music do you like listening to?
Can I introduce you to my friend?
Please refer to the notes at the end for more information.
Nobody responded to my complaint.
She apologised to me the next day.
Verbs with "with"
I agree with everything you've said.
My assistant will provide you with more information if you need it.
We're finding it difficult to deal with the stress.
https://test-
english.com/grammar-
points/b1/verb-
preposition/
1. We are very excited __________________ our trip to
Spain next week. (AT, WITH, ABOUT, OVER)
2. I am very fond __________________ drinking green tea.
(FOR, OF, ABOUT, AT)
3. Almost all politicians were involved __________________
the scandal. (IN, AT, WITH, FROM)
4. I am looking forward ______________ having a meeting
with you next week. (WITH, AT, TO, FROM)
5. At the moment, she is recovering __________________
her injuries. (AT, OF, FROM, WITH)
6. I’m dreaming ________________ becoming a famous
scientist one day (FOR, WITH, ABOUT, INTO)
7. My cousin is married __________________ a famous
American (WITH, FOR, TO, FROM)
8. I am responsible __________________ training the new
recruits. (AT, ABOUT, WITH, FOR)
9. Many people took advantage __________________ the
low prices offered by the new shop (OF, FOR, WITH, TO)
10.I was not quite satisfied __________________ the exam
results. (AT, FOR, WITH, ABOUT)
HTTPS://ED.TED.COM/
LESSONS/CAN-YOU-
SOLVE-THE-BRIDGE-
RIDDLE-ALEX-
GENDLER
 Think of:
an expert in something someone in the class
that you like: who is talented:

something you are

a gifted musician:
useless at:

something you have an aptitude for:

Open your books in
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NOW...
y o u r t u rn!
https://www.lingobest.com/free-online-
english-course/can-could-past-ability-
grammar/
 Past abilities
To talk about past abilities, we can use:
COULD
Used to talk about general skills or abilities in the past.

Examples:
When I first started my career, I could work long hours without a break.
They hired her because they knew that she could do the job well.
At this time last year, Santiago couldn’t speak English.
 Past abilities
To talk about past abilities, we can use:
WAS/WERE ABLE TO
Used to talk about specific achievements.
Examples:
I called our IT help desk and they were able to resolve the issue.
Were you able to get in touch with Gary?
Kathy wasn’t able to get here on time because of the accident on the
highway.
 Past abilities
To talk about past abilities, we can use:
MANAGED TO
Used to talk about specific achievements that were difficult.
Examples:
No one thought she had a chance to win the race but somehow she managed to
get enough votes and win the election.
How did they manage to find a suitable candidate for the position in such short
time?
https://www.gramm
arism.com/can-vs-
could-exercises/
Open your books in
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1. Ten years ago, people ________ smoke right outside the
building. Now they have to leave the business park.
2. When I was in college, I met a guy who ________ speak
seven languages.
3. I have no idea how they ________ find a better deal than
what we offered them.
4. _________ to find a caterer for the event next week?
5. Unfortunately, we ________ meet the deadline. We needed
an extra day.
6. I delegated that task to Mike. I told him I was having some
difficulties with it, and he told me that he ________ handle it.
7. Even though I woke up a half an hour late, I _________ get to work
on time.
8. Unfortunately, I woke up half an hour late and I __________ get to
work on time.
9. When our company had only 25 employees we _________ have
meetings with the entire company. Now it’s much more difficult and
requires more planning.
10. I have no idea how we ________ get a reservation for tonight on
such short notice.
 Activity
Now write 3 sentences of your own for each
verb that we saw and practiced!