Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and one or more particles, usually prepositions or adverbs, that create a new meaning. For example, the verb give combined with the particle up forms the phrasal verb give up, which means to stop trying. These expressions are common in everyday English and can often be confusing for learners because their meanings are not always obvious from the individual words. Phrasal verbs can be separable or inseparable. In separable phrasal verbs, the object can come between the verb and the particle, such as in turn off the light or turn the light off. In inseparable phrasal verbs, the verb and particle must stay together, like in run into someone, meaning to meet someone unexpectedly. Understanding phrasal verbs is essential for mastering conversational English.