Phrasal verbs: stance and accountability

Vocabulary in this set

Use common phrasal verbs to express stance, responsibility, and social judgement precisely.

1. back down

   Phrase

   to retreat or withdraw from a position, statement, demand, or conflict

   The word 'back down' means to retreat or withdraw from a position, statement, demand, or conflict, often because of fear, pressure, or lack of support.

2. go after

   Phrase

   to pursue or chase after someone or something with the intention to catch up, follow or confront.

   He went after her to apologize for his behavior.

3. look out for

   Phrase

   to be vigilant or watchful for something

   While hiking, look out for signs indicating the dangerous areas.

4. put up with

   Phrase

   to tolerate or endure

   He has a lot of patience to put up with such challenging situations.

5. look down on

   Phrase

   to view with contempt or disapproval

   It's unfair to look down on people just because they come from a different background.

6. get away with

   Phrase

   to escape punishment or consequences

   She thought she could get away with cheating on the exam, but the teacher caught her.

7. live up

   Phrase

   To fulfill one's responsibilities, duties or potential; to meet expectations; to succeed or achieve something

   She lived up to everyone's expectations by scoring an A on her exam.

8. let down

   Phrase

   to fail to meet expectations or promises

   I was let down by my friend who didn't show up for our appointment.

9. face up to

   Phrase

   to confront or accept a difficult or unpleasant situation

10. call off

    Phrase

    cancel

    The meeting has been called off due to bad weather.