How to Use Common English Phrasal Verbs in Professional Emails
Learn how to use common English phrasal verbs like 'set up' and 'carry out' correctly in professional emails. Boost your business communication with our expert
To use common English phrasal verbs correctly in a professional email, focus on their specific business context and choose verbs that are widely understood and not overly informal. Verbs like 'set up' (to arrange), 'carry out' (to perform), and 'bring up' (to mention) add fluency, but always consider if a single-word alternative like 'arrange' or 'raise' sounds more appropriate for your audience.
Mastering professional communication in English means navigating its nuances, and phrasal verbs are a classic challenge. While they make everyday conversation sound natural and fluent, using them incorrectly in a business email can lead to confusion or sound unprofessional. This guide will show you how to confidently use common English phrasal verbs to make your workplace emails clear, concise, and effective.
Why is it important to use common English phrasal verbs correctly?
Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and a preposition or adverb (e.g., 'look into', 'deal with'). Using them correctly in business English demonstrates a high level of proficiency and helps your writing sound less robotic. They can often express an action more succinctly than a more formal, Latin-based word.
However, the key is *context*. Some phrasal verbs are too casual for corporate emails ('chill out', 'hang out'), while others are perfectly suited for professional communication. Choosing the right ones enhances clarity and builds rapport with your colleagues and clients.
How do I choose the right phrasal verb for my email?
Deciding which phrasal verb to use can be tricky. Before you type, ask yourself these questions:
- Who is my audience? An email to a close colleague might use more casual language than a proposal sent to a new client. When in doubt, err on the side of formality.
- What is the context? Is the email for planning, reporting, or problem-solving? Different situations call for different vocabulary. For example, 'look into a problem' is a standard business phrase.
- Is there a clearer single-word alternative? Sometimes, a word like 'investigate' is more direct than 'look into', or 'postpone' is better than 'put off'. Your goal is clear communication, not just using clever phrases.
What are some examples of how to use common English phrasal verbs in emails?
Let's break down some of the most useful phrasal verbs for the workplace. Here are three essentials—'set up', 'carry out', and 'bring up'—with clear examples of how to integrate them into your professional writing.
How to use 'set up'
'Set up' is a versatile phrasal verb that commonly means to arrange, organize, or establish.
- Meaning: To arrange or schedule (a meeting, a call).
- Example: "Could you please set up a call for Thursday afternoon to discuss the Q3 results?"
- Meaning: To establish or create (a system, a department).
- Example: "We have set up a new project management system to improve workflow."
How to use 'carry out'
'Carry out' is a formal and effective phrasal verb for talking about completing a task or plan.
- Meaning: To perform or complete a task, study, or instruction.
- Example 1: "The marketing team will carry out a detailed competitor analysis this week."
- Example 2: "Please carry out the instructions detailed in the attached document."
How to use 'bring up'
'Bring up' is perfect for when you need to introduce a topic or point into a conversation or discussion, often one that is sensitive or important.
- Meaning: To mention or start talking about a particular subject.
- Example 1: "I'd like to bring up the issue of the project timeline in our next meeting."
- Example 2: "Thank you for bringing that point up; it's an important consideration."
Other useful professional phrasal verbs
- Look into: To investigate or research. ("I will look into the technical issue and get back to you.")
- Follow up: To contact someone again to give or get more information. ("I am writing to follow up on our conversation from last week.")
- Deal with: To manage or handle a situation. ("Our support team will deal with your request shortly.")
By carefully selecting your words, you will show that you can use common English phrasal verbs with precision and professionalism. This skill not only improves the quality of your emails but also boosts your confidence in workplace communication.
Frequently Asked Questions about Phrasal Verbs in Emails
Q1: Are phrasal verbs too informal for professional emails?
Not necessarily. Many phrasal verbs like 'follow up', 'set up', and 'carry out' are standard in business English. The key is to avoid overly colloquial or casual phrasal verbs ('mess up', 'give up') and to know your audience's expectations.
Q2: What is the difference between 'set up a meeting' and 'arrange a meeting'?
In most contexts, they mean the same thing and are interchangeable. 'Arrange' can sometimes sound slightly more formal, but 'set up' is perfectly acceptable and widely used in professional settings worldwide.
Q3: Can I end an email with a phrasal verb like 'look forward to'?
Absolutely. "I look forward to hearing from you" is a very common and professional way to close an email. It's a standard closing that is polite and clear.
Q4: How can I learn more business English phrasal verbs?
Read business articles, listen to professional podcasts, and pay attention to the language used in emails from native-speaking colleagues. When you encounter a new phrasal verb, look up its specific meaning in a business context and try using it in a sentence.
Q5: Should I avoid phrasal verbs when writing to non-native English speakers?
It's a good idea to prioritize clarity. If you believe a phrasal verb might be confusing, consider using a single-word alternative (e.g., use 'postpone' instead of 'put off'). However, many common business phrasal verbs are taught in English courses globally, so verbs like 'set up' are generally well understood.