10 Advanced Phrasal Verbs to Boost Your IELTS Speaking Score in 2024

Often you will have heard that students have a command of vocabulary while they are preparing for IELTS speaking. Because somewhere it is the most important point of reference that can impact your IELTS band score. The examiner will always notice which vocabulary you are using and how you use it which means that your accuracy in speaking matters too. You can show how strong your vocabulary is by using idioms, phrasal verbs, synonyms & set expressions etc.

In this blog, we discuss 20 advanced phrasal verbs to boost your IELTS speaking score that will give you a better understanding of these phrasal verbs. Using phrasal verbs shows how you are fluent in English. Maximum native speakers always use short multiple-word verbs in their sentences that can give you some confusion while speaking. Often by using phrasal verbs, your speech will be more natural and lively, and in the end, you can boost your IELTS band score in the speaking section of the exam by using them. For personalized guidance and practice, consider seeking help from a Jalandhar IELTS centre then you can achieve easy success in IELTS.

We have brought only for you some advanced phrasal verbs that will add some points to your English speaking with proper definitions and appropriate examples.

Cut down on: It means to reduce the amount of something, typically something undesirable or excessive.

Example:

I need to cut down on sugar to improve my health.

The company is cutting down on expenses to save money.

He’s trying to cut down on the time he spends watching TV.

Brush up on: It means to improve or refresh your knowledge or skills in something, usually something you haven’t practised in a while. It’s often used when someone wants to regain familiarity with a subject or skill.

Examples:

I need to brush up on my French before my trip to Paris.

She decided to brush up on her math skills for the upcoming exam.

He’s brushing up on his guitar playing after years of not practising.

Bring (subject) down:

It means to cause something or someone to lose power, status, or confidence; it can also mean to lower or reduce something. It implies a negative impact, often involving a decline in position or mood.

Example:

The scandal could bring the politician down, ruining his career.

The new regulations aim to bring down the cost of healthcare.

Negative comments can bring someone down, affecting their self-esteem.

4: Get around to: It means to finally do something that you’ve been intending to do for a while but haven’t managed to do yet. It’s often used when someone is delayed in completing a task due to other priorities or procrastination.

Examples:

I’ve been meaning to read that book, but I just haven’t gotten around to it yet.

She finally got around to cleaning the garage over the weekend.

I’ll get around to replying to your email once I have some free time.

5. Get along / get on with:

“Get along” or “get on with” means to have a friendly relationship with someone or to work well together without conflicts. Both phrases are used to describe harmonious relationships and smooth interactions. “Get on with” is more common in British English, while “Get along with” is more common in American English.

Examples:

I really get along with my coworkers; we have a great team dynamic.

Despite their differences, they get on well with each other.

It’s important to get along with your neighbours for a peaceful environment.

6. Grow apart: It means gradually becoming less close or connected with someone over time, usually due to changes in interests, circumstances, or relationships. This phrase is often used to describe the gradual fading of close relationships or friendships.

Examples:

After high school, we grew apart because we went to different colleges and lost touch.

They used to be best friends, but they grew apart as their lives took different paths.

It’s natural for people to grow apart as they develop new interests and priorities.

7. Keep from: It means to prevent oneself or someone else from doing something or to restrain from taking a certain action. It implies an effort to avoid or control a specific action or behaviour.

Examples:

I had to keep myself from laughing during the serious meeting.

She couldn’t keep from telling her friend about the surprise party.

They kept the children from going outside because of the severe weather.

8. Look up to:

It means to admire or respect someone, often because of their qualities, achievements, or character. This phrase conveys a sense of admiration and respect towards someone regarded as inspiring or influential.

Examples:

Many young athletes look up to famous sports stars as their role models.

She has always looked up to her older sister for her dedication and success.

I look up to my mentor for his guidance and expertise in the field.

9: Mull over: It means to think about something carefully and for a long time, often considering various aspects before making a decision. This phrase suggests a thoughtful and deliberate process of consideration.

Examples:

She needed some time to mull over the job offer before making a final decision.

He spent the weekend mulling over the idea of starting his own business.

Before submitting the proposal, they mull over every detail to ensure it’s perfect.

10: Run up against: It means to encounter or face a problem, difficulty, or obstacle, often unexpectedly. This phrase indicates encountering challenges or barriers that need to be addressed.

Examples:

We ran up against several issues during the project that delayed the deadline.

The team ran up against budget constraints that limited their options.

She ran up against resistance when she tried to implement the new policy.

Conclusion

Mastering advanced phrasal verbs can significantly enhance your IELTS speaking performance, making your language use more natural and dynamic. By incorporating these expressions into your responses, you not only showcase a broader vocabulary but also demonstrate fluency and depth in English. For those aiming to excel in the IELTS exam, practice these phrasal verbs and seek guidance from a certified IELTS centre in Jalandharto refine your skills. This combination will better prepare you for achieving a higher band score and achieving your language goals.