Business Phrasal Verbs Flashcards

The project manager decided to __________ the launch of the new software by a week to fix the remaining bugs. Which phrasal verb means 'to postpone'?

Answer: put off

The correct phrasal verb is 'put off,' which means to delay or postpone an event to a later date. 'Call off' means to cancel, 'bring up' means to mention, and 'set up' means to arrange or establish.

During the meeting, the finance team was asked to __________ a detailed budget for the next quarter. Which phrasal verb best fits the sentence?

Answer: draw up

'Draw up' means to prepare and write a formal document, such as a plan, contract, or budget. 'Look into' means to investigate. 'Get through' means to finish a large amount of work. 'Fall behind' means to fail to keep up with a schedule.

Which of the following sentences correctly uses the phrasal verb 'to run into' in a business context?

Answer: If we run into any major issues during testing, we'll need to inform the stakeholders immediately.

The phrasal verb 'run into' means to encounter problems or difficulties unexpectedly. The other options misuse the phrasal verb. 'Run by' would be appropriate for getting feedback, 'take over' for acquiring a competitor, and 'check with' for consulting a manager.

After weeks of negotiation, the two companies were finally able to __________ an agreement that satisfied both parties.

Answer: work out

'Work out' means to find a solution or come to an agreement through discussion and negotiation. 'Back down' means to withdraw a claim. 'Hold off' means to delay. 'Iron out' means to resolve minor problems or details, which is plausible but 'work out' better fits the context of reaching a final agreement.

Scenario: A manager wants her team to investigate the recent drop in sales figures. Which instruction is the most appropriate?

Answer: "I need you to look into the recent drop in sales."

'Look into' means to investigate or examine the facts about a problem or situation. 'Follow up' means to take further action related to something. 'Wrap up' means to conclude. 'Bring in' means to involve someone.

The CEO had to __________ the annual company picnic due to the severe weather forecast. This means the event was canceled.

Answer: call off

The phrasal verb 'call off' means to cancel a planned event. 'Put back' means to postpone to a later date. 'Take over' means to assume control. 'Go over' means to review.