Language of the Day: Phrasal Verbs with "Put"

Phrasal verbs can be tricky, but they’re also one of the most natural parts of English conversation. Today, we’re focusing on phrasal verbs with "put"—a small word with big personality! Let’s explore 8 common ones that will help you sound more fluent and confident.


 
 
 
 

1. Put off – to delay or postpone something

Example:
"I always put off doing my homework until the last minute."

📝 Tip: This is great for talking about procrastination!

2. Put on – to dress in clothing or to gain weight

Examples:
"She put on her jacket before going outside."
"I’ve put on a few pounds over the holidays."

🧥 Double meaning alert! This one can be about clothes or weight.

3. Put up with – to tolerate or accept something unpleasant

Example:
"I can’t put up with this noise anymore!"

😤 Use this when something is annoying but you have to deal with it.

4. Put out – to extinguish something (like a fire or light)

Example:
"Please put out the candles before you leave."

🔥 Also used to mean causing inconvenience:
"Sorry to put you out, but could you help me move this box?"

5. Put down – to place something on a surface or to insult someone

Examples:
"He put down his phone and looked at me."
"She felt hurt when her boss put her down in front of everyone."

📱 Context is key—this one can be physical or emotional.

6. Put together – to assemble or organize something

Example:
"We put together a team for the project."

🧩 Think of building or combining things.

7. Put aside – to save or ignore something for later

Example:
"I’m putting aside some money for my vacation."

💰 Also used for setting aside emotions or arguments.

8. Put across – to communicate an idea clearly

Example:
"He put his point across very well during the meeting."

🗣️ Perfect for presentations or discussions!

🧠 Practice Time!

Try making your own sentences using these phrasal verbs. Which ones do you already use? Which ones are new to you?

Zach J