Phrasal verbs are everywhere in business English — 'follow up,' 'roll out,' 'run by,' 'scale up.' They're small but constant, and they often sound more natural than their formal equivalents. Here's how to master the ones that matter.
The workhorses
'Follow up' (check again), 'roll out' (launch), 'run by' (get input from), 'scale up' (grow), 'reach out' (contact), 'wrap up' (finish). These appear in nearly every workday. Example: 'I'll follow up after I run it by legal.'
Why they sound natural
Native speakers often prefer phrasal verbs to formal words — 'set up a meeting' over 'arrange a meeting,' 'find out' over 'ascertain.' Using them makes your English sound relaxed and fluent rather than stiff.
Learn them in chunks
Frequently asked questions
What phrasal verbs are used most in business?
'Follow up,' 'roll out,' 'run by,' 'scale up,' 'reach out,' and 'wrap up' appear in nearly every workday.
Why use phrasal verbs instead of formal words?
They sound more natural and relaxed — 'set up' over 'arrange,' 'find out' over 'ascertain.'
How do I learn phrasal verbs?
As whole phrases tied to real situations, not by rules.
How do I practice them?
Use them in real work with feedback. Book a free 30-minute class.
Start with a free 30-minute class
See the Fast-Track Fluency Method™ in action and meet Digby in person. No risk, no obligation.
Book My Free Class