to end a relationship
break up
My partner and I broke up after being in a relationship for two years.
to return
get back
We got back very late last night after going to the cinema.
to leave home to attend a social event
go out
to put what you are holding on a surface or floor
put down
He put down the book he was reading and looked out the window at the passing scenery.
to remove something (usually clothing)
take off
I took off my muddy shoes before entering the apartment.
to escape
break out
The chimpanzees broke out of their cages and were running loose in the zoo.
to get out of bed
get up
What time do you usually get up?
to start, proceed
go ahead
The concert went ahead even though the lead singer was still missing.
to postpone
put off
I put off doing my laundry until Saturday.
to return an item
take back
I took back the air conditioner I had bought since I decided I didn't really need it.
to get upset
break down
She broke down and cried after she received the terrible news.
to go on vacation
get away
We have decided to get away this weekend. We're going to Paris on Friday after class.
to review
go over
The teacher went over the material that was to be included on the exam.
to insult, make someone feel stupid
put down
Stop putting yourself down! You are one of the most talented people I know!
to purposely break into pieces
take apart
My father took apart the engine to repair it and clean it.
to force entry to a building
break in
The rioters broke into the museum and looted historic treasures.
to retaliate, take revenge
get back at
My brother got back at me for teasing him last week.
to compete, oppose
go against
Your proposal goes against the very principles of democracy! I cannot accept it.
to tolerate
put up with
I have put up with your insults long enough! I am leaving!
to take control of
take over
My friend took over managing the team while I was ill.
to develop a skin condition
break out in
My sister is allergic to shellfish and broke out in a rash after eating a dish that contained shrimp sauce.
to become interested in something again
get back into
I've just gotten back into swimming recently.
to suffer, lack or deprivation
go without
Many people around the world go without proper food and health care despite the extreme wealth that exists in highly developed nations.
to assemble
put together
We put the jigsaw puzzle together in three days.
to resemble a family member
take after
I take after my father's side of the family more than my mother's.