When you step into a job interview, you want to sound clear, confident, and professional.
Many English learners, however, focus on formal, business vocabulary, but let me tell you a little secret: using phrasal verbs can make you sound more natural, fluent, and relatable. The key is knowing which ones to use and, of course, how to use them correctly.
At Intrepid English, we believe grammar should be practical. Phrasal verbs are a great example. They aren’t just grammar rules to memorise; they’re tools you can use to describe your experience with impact.
In this article, we’ll explore how phrasal verbs work, which ones are the most useful for interviews, and how to practise them so that you’re ready to shine.
What are Phrasal Verbs?
A phrasal verb is a combination of a verb + a preposition or adverb (sometimes both) that creates a new meaning. For example:
- bring up = to mention something
- carry on = to continue
- figure out = to solve
Phrasal verbs can be separable (you can put the object between the verb and the particle) or inseparable (the verb and the particle stay together). For example:
- Separable: We carried out the project OR We carried the project out.
- Inseparable: We came across a problem. (You can’t say came a problem across.)
Why Phrasal Verbs matter in interviews
Many learners avoid phrasal verbs because they seem informal or because they’re not comfortable with the different meanings they can have. But in interviews, the right phrasal verbs can actually help you:
- Sound more natural and less robotic.
- Express ideas clearly and efficiently.
- Show you’re comfortable in English, not just phrases learnt from textbooks.
Of course, you don’t want to overuse them or use very casual ones (like chill out or hang out). Instead, focus on those that are common in professional settings.
Phrasal Verbs for teamwork:
Teamwork is one of the most common topics in interviews. Here are some useful phrasal verbs to describe collaboration:
- Carry out = complete or execute.
I carried out regular team reviews to ensure we stayed on track. - Set up = organise or arrange.
I set up weekly meetings to improve communication. - Take on = accept responsibility.
I took on the role of project coordinator when our manager was away.
Phrasal Verbs for career growth:
Employers want to see ambition and initiative. Use these phrasal verbs to show your drive:
- Take on = accept a challenge or responsibility.
I took on extra training to prepare for leadership opportunities. - Move up = advance in position.
Within two years, I moved up from assistant to supervisor. - Take over = assume control.
I took over the management of a key client account. - Step up = rise to a challenge.
I stepped up when my team needed someone to lead a critical presentation
Phrasal Verbs for problem-solving:
Interviewers love to ask how you’ve dealt with challenges. These phrasal verbs help you tell memorable stories:
- Figure out = find a solution.
I figured out a way to reduce costs without losing quality. - Deal with = manage a problem or situation.
I dealt with customer complaints by listening carefully and offering solutions. - Come up with = create or suggest an idea.
I came up with a new process that saved the team 10 hours per week. - Sort out = resolve or organise.
I sorted out a scheduling conflict between departments.
Phrases to avoid (and what to say instead!)
Sometimes learners rely on very basic verbs like do or make, which sound vague in professional settings. Phrasal verbs can help you upgrade your language:
- I did the project → I carried out the project.
- I made a plan → I came up with a plan.
- I solved the problem → I figured out the problem.
By choosing the phrasal verb, you sound more specific and confident.
Practise these Phrasal Verbs:
The best way to remember phrasal verbs is to personalise them. Try these steps:
- Choose a real example from your experience.
- Insert a phrasal verb into your answer.
- Say it out loud.
For example:
Instead of: I solved a problem with late deliveries.
Try: I figured out a way to speed up our delivery process.
Now use your personalised example as much as possible. The more you use it, the more natural it will become and you will use the phrasal verb instinctively in your next interview.
Communicate with confidence
Phrasal verbs may seem small, but they can make a big difference in how professional and fluent you sound. In interviews, it’s not about memorising every phrasal verb, it’s about choosing a few powerful ones that help you tell your story with clarity and impact.
Remember: use phrasal verbs in your OWN examples to help you sound natural.
How Intrepid English can help
- Monthly 1:1 coaching sessions with Lorraine (goal-setting + accountability)
- Personalised lessons linked to your real career and life goals
- A supportive learning community where learners encourage each other
- Human-centred mentorship (no random tutors, no AI matching – your personal teacher is with you throughout your Intrepid English journey)
You can get started with a £1 trial lesson, where you’ll receive a personalised action plan tailored to your goals.