Collocations are combinations of words that often go together and sound natural to native speakers. They can involve various parts of speech, including verbs. Here, we'll focus specifically on verbal collocations, which are phrases where a verb is combined with certain nouns, adverbs, or adjectives to create a common expression. Below are some types of verbal collocations along with definitions and examples:
1. Verb + Noun Collocations
These combinations pair a verb with a noun, often to express a specific action or behavior.
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Example: "make a decision"
- Definition: To choose or select among options.
- Sentence: After much deliberation, she decided to make a decision by the end of the week.
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Example: "have a conversation"
- Definition: To talk with someone.
- Sentence: They had a conversation about their future plans.
2. Verb + Adverb Collocations
These combinations involve a verb paired with an adverb that modifies the action.
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Example: "run quickly"
- Definition: To move at a fast pace.
- Sentence: He had to run quickly to catch the bus.
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Example: "speak fluently"
- Definition: To communicate smoothly and easily.
- Sentence: She can speak Spanish fluently.
3. Verb + Prepositional Phrase Collocations
These combinations link a verb to a preposition that introduces a complementary phrase.
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Example: "rely on"
- Definition: To depend on someone or something.
- Sentence: You can always rely on your friends in tough times.
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Example: "focus on"
- Definition: To concentrate attention or effort towards something.
- Sentence: You need to focus on your studies to improve your grades.
4. Phrasal Verbs
These are combinations of verbs with one or more particles (usually prepositions or adverbs), which often change the meaning of the original verb.
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Example: "give up"
- Definition: To stop trying or to quit.
- Sentence: Even though it was hard, she refused to give up on her dreams.
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Example: "turn down"
- Definition: To reject or refuse something, such as an offer or invitation.
- Sentence: He turned down the job offer because it didn't meet his expectations.
5. Verb + Adjective Collocations
These are combinations where a verb is used with an adjective to create a specific meaning.
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Example: "feel happy"
- Definition: To experience a sense of joy or contentment.
- Sentence: I always feel happy when I am surrounded by nature.
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Example: "look tired"
- Definition: To appear weary or lacking energy.
- Sentence: You look tired; did you not sleep well last night?
Conclusion
Understanding verbal collocations can greatly enhance language fluency and make speech and writing sound more natural. Recognizing and practicing these combinations will help learners use the language more effectively.