Elevate Your English: The Power of Phrasal Verbs

Preface

Welcome to "Elevate Your English: The Power of Phrasal Verbs," your gateway to mastering the intricacies of everyday language. This comprehensive guide is crafted to enhance your confidence and proficiency in English communication.

Within the pages of this book, you'll embark on a journey through the realm of essential phrasal verbs. We provide you with clear definitions, meanings, and real-world examples, demystifying these linguistic components. Our goal is not just to facilitate memorization but to offer practical insights that enable you to use phrasal verbs naturally.

The uniqueness of "Elevate Your English: The Power of Phrasal Verbs" lies in its focus on practical application. Each section concludes with a concise summary, ensuring that you not only understand the phrasal verbs but also grasp how to seamlessly incorporate them into your conversations and writing.

Phrasal verbs are the secret sauce of dynamic language expression, whether you're navigating everyday chats or engaging in professional discussions. "Elevate Your English: The Power of Phrasal Verbs" is your companion on this transformative journey, providing you with the tools to elevate your language skills to new heights.

Embark on this adventure, and let "Elevate Your English: The Power of Phrasal Verbs" be your guide to mastering the power of phrasal verbs.

Hanker after

Hanker after is a phrasal verb used to express a strong and persistent desire for something, typically something that is not easily attainable or something that is longed for intensely.

Meanings:

To Strongly Desire or Long For.

She hankered after a life of adventure, always dreaming of traveling to far-off lands.

To Yearn For Intensely.

Despite his success, he still hankered after the simple joys of his childhood.

Summary:

Hanker after encapsulates a deep longing or yearning for something, often implying a persistent desire for something unattainable or something that might be viewed as ideal or elusive. It signifies a strong and continuous longing, suggesting a yearning that remains constant over time. The phrase is commonly used to express a wistful desire for experiences, possessions, or situations that seem out of reach or have a sentimental value.

Harp on

Harp on is a phrasal verb used to describe someone repeatedly talking about or dwelling on a particular subject, often in a tedious or annoying manner. It implies persistent or excessive discussion or complaint about something, sometimes without making any progress or reaching a resolution.

Meanings:

To Persistently Discuss or Complain About.

He keeps harping on about his neighbor's loud music, but hasn't spoken to them directly.

To Continuously Reiterate a Point or Issue.

The manager harped on the importance of meeting deadlines during the entire staff meeting.

Summary:

The phrasal verb harp on refers to the act of incessantly talking about a particular subject, often in a repetitive or complaining manner. It signifies the tendency to repeatedly focus on a specific topic without making substantial progress or achieving a resolution.

Hate on

The phrasal verb hate on refers to expressing strong dislike, criticism, or negative sentiments towards someone or something. It is an informal expression used primarily in colloquial or casual conversations.

Meanings:

To strongly dislike or harbor animosity towards.

She's always hating on her colleague's success instead of celebrating it.

To criticize or express disdain for someone or something.

Some people just love to hate on popular trends without understanding them.

Summary:

Hate on is an informal phrasal verb used to describe the act of expressing strong dislike, criticism, or negative sentiments toward a person, idea, or thing. It's commonly employed in casual speech and informal writing to convey disapproval or disdain. The phrase signifies a negative attitude or behavior, often without substantial reason or explanation, directed at the target of dislike or criticism.

Have against

The phrasal verb have against generally implies holding a grudge, resentment, or a negative feeling toward someone or something due to a particular reason or cause.

Meanings:

To harbor resentment or a grudge towards someone or something.

She seems to have something against me, but I'm not sure why.

I don't have anything against his ideas; I just think there might be a better approach.

To have a specific complaint, objection, or disagreement concerning someone or something.

What does he have against the new policy changes?

I have nothing against the plan itself, but its execution needs improvement.

Summary:

The phrasal verb have against encompasses holding negative feelings or objections towards someone or something due to a particular reason or cause. It can denote resentment, grievances, or objections, often without specifying the exact nature of the issue or the reason behind it. The verb is used to express disapproval, dissatisfaction, or a personal negative sentiment toward a person, idea, or action without delving into precise details regarding the basis of the negative feelings.

Have on

The phrasal verb have on typically denotes wearing or having clothing, accessories, or something similar physically attached or present. It can also connote the act of being duped or fooled by someone.

Meanings:

To wear or have on clothing or accessories.

She had on a beautiful dress for the party.

Do you have your coat on?

To possess or carry something.

He always has his phone on him.

To be fooled or deceived by someone.

I thought it was genuine, but I had him on about his intentions.

Summary:

Have on is a versatile phrasal verb that primarily refers to wearing or having something physically on oneself, such as clothing or accessories. It can also signify possessing or being in possession of something. Additionally, in a different context, it can convey the sense of being deceived or misled by someone.

Understanding the different meanings of have on is essential to grasp its usage across various contexts, whether in reference to attire, possession, or being misled.

Have over

Have over is a phrasal verb that carries various meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It generally refers to inviting someone or something to come to a place or to continue from one time to another.

Meanings:

Invite someone to one's home or a gathering.

We're having some friends over for dinner tonight.

She had her colleagues over for a party last weekend.

Continue from one time or situation to another.

The meeting ran over, so we had to have it over lunch.

We'll have to have this conversation over coffee sometime.

Possess or control something.

He has over fifty books in his collection.

The company has over twenty branches nationwide.

Summary:

Have over is a versatile phrasal verb used to indicate inviting someone to a location or event, continuing an activity from one time to another, or signifying possession or control over something. Its meaning can change depending on the context of the sentence, encompassing invitations, continuations, and possession or control.

Hear about

The phrasal verb hear about refers to the action of learning or receiving information about something, usually through informal channels or by word of mouth. It implies acquiring knowledge or being informed about a particular event, news, or situation.

Meanings:

Receive information.

I heard about the new job opening at the company through a friend.

Become aware of something.

Did you hear about the accident that happened on the highway yesterday?

Learn through rumor or gossip.

People in the neighborhood heard about the upcoming changes to the local park.

Summary:

Hear about is a phrasal verb denoting the act of obtaining information or becoming aware of something, often informally or through word of mouth. It encompasses receiving news or learning about an event, situation, or topic from various sources, such as friends, acquaintances, or the community at large. This phrasal verb captures the essence of acquiring knowledge in a casual or unofficial manner, relying on informal channels of communication for information dissemination.

Hear from

Hear from is a phrasal verb used to describe the act of receiving communication or information from someone. It implies getting news, a message, or an update from an individual or a source.

Meanings:

To Receive Communication or Information.

I hope to hear from my friend soon about their travel plans.

To Be Contacted by Someone.

I heard from the company regarding my job application.

To Learn or Discover News or Updates.

We haven't heard from the professor about the assignment deadline extension.

Summary:

The phrasal verb hear from refers to the action of receiving communication or updates from someone or a specific source. It encompasses the idea of being contacted, learning news, or receiving information. This expression is commonly used in various contexts, such as personal communication, job-related matters, or general information exchanges, emphasizing the act of getting in touch or receiving news from a particular person or entity.

Hear of

The phrasal verb hear of typically implies gaining knowledge or becoming aware of something. It denotes the action of learning about a particular subject, event, or person. It can also suggest familiarity with or having knowledge of someone or something.

Meanings:

To learn about or discover something or someone.

I heard of a fantastic new restaurant downtown.

To be aware of the existence or details of someone or something.

Have you heard of the latest developments in technology?

To know about someone or something by reputation or information.

She's never heard of the author I mentioned.

Summary:

The phrasal verb hear of is used to express becoming aware of something or someone, discovering information, or having knowledge about them. It signifies acquiring knowledge either through hearsay, information, or personal discovery.

Hear out

Hear out is a phrasal verb that means to listen to someone fully and attentively until they have finished speaking, especially when they have something important or significant to say. It implies giving someone a chance to express their thoughts, feelings, or opinions without interruption or judgment.

Meanings:

Listen attentively to completion: To patiently hear someone's viewpoint or argument without interrupting, allowing them to fully express themselves.

Please hear me out before making any decisions about the project.

Consider someone's perspective: To give consideration or attention to someone's thoughts or opinions, even if they differ from your own.

I know his ideas are unconventional, but let's hear him out; there might be some merit to what he's saying.

Summary:

Hear out involves actively listening to someone without interruption, allowing them the opportunity to express their thoughts or concerns fully. It emphasizes patience and respect for the speaker's opinions or viewpoints, even if they may differ from one's own. This phrasal verb encourages open-mindedness and understanding by giving importance to someone's complete expression before making judgments or decisions.

Hinge on

Hinge on is a phrasal verb that denotes dependence or reliance on a specific factor or condition for the success or outcome of a situation. It implies that the result of a particular event or decision is closely connected to a crucial element.

Meanings:

To be dependent on; to rely on something for a particular outcome or result.

The success of the project hinges on securing adequate funding.

To be the crucial factor or deciding factor in a situation.

His promotion hinged on the positive feedback from the senior management.

Summary:

The phrasal verb hinge on signifies a situation where something is greatly dependent on or influenced by a specific factor or condition. It implies that the outcome, success, or significance of an event or circumstance relies heavily on a particular aspect or condition being met. It often emphasizes the critical nature of a factor in determining the final result or outcome of a situation.

Hit back

The phrasal verb hit back typically implies responding to an attack, criticism, or an unfavorable situation, often in a forceful or assertive manner.

Meanings:

Retaliate or Counterattack.

After enduring numerous insults, she decided to hit back with a sharp and well-thought-out response.

Respond Defensively.

When accused of incompetence, the manager hit back by listing the team's accomplishments.

React or Respond in Defense.

The government spokesperson hit back at the allegations made by the opposition during the press conference.

Summary:

Hit back as a phrasal verb signifies retaliating, counterattacking, or responding in defense against criticism, attacks, or unfavorable situations. It involves reacting assertively or defensively to address or challenge the original statement or action.

This phrasal verb encapsulates the notion of responding to something negative or critical, often with a strong or forceful reaction, either verbally or through actions, in order to defend oneself or counter the initial attack.

Hit on

Hit on is a phrasal verb that can convey different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It generally refers to making an attempt to approach or interact with someone, often in a flirtatious or amorous manner. It can also mean discovering or coming upon something unexpectedly.

Meanings:

To Flirt or Make Advances Towards Someone.

He hit on her at the party by offering to buy her a drink.

To Discover or Find Something Unexpectedly.

The researchers hit on a groundbreaking solution while experimenting in the lab.

Summary:

Hit on is a versatile phrasal verb that can denote either making advances towards someone in a social or romantic context or discovering something unexpectedly. In social interactions, it commonly implies flirting or making an approach, while in other scenarios, it signifies stumbling upon or discovering something by chance. Understanding the context is crucial in interpreting the intended meaning of this phrasal verb.

Hit out

The phrasal verb hit out typically refers to the act of striking or attacking someone physically. It can also encompass expressing criticism or negative remarks aimed at someone or something.

Meanings:

Physical Striking or Attacking.

He hit out at the punching bag to release his frustration.

The boxer hit out with a series of powerful punches.

Expressing Criticism or Negative Remarks.

The politician hit out at his opponents during the debate.

The review hit out at the poor quality of the product.

Summary:

The phrasal verb hit out carries dual meanings. Primarily, it denotes physical striking or attacking, often observed in sports, fights, or when physically lashing out. Additionally, it encompasses the expression of criticism or negative remarks aimed at individuals, objects, or ideas. Whether in a physical or verbal sense, hit out conveys an aggressive or forceful action directed towards someone or something.

Hit up

The phrasal verb hit up is an informal expression with multiple meanings, often dependent on the context in which it is used. It is versatile and can be employed in various situations, primarily informal or colloquial ones.

Meanings:

To Visit or Approach Someone or Somewhere.

Let's hit up the new café downtown for some coffee.

To Request or Ask Someone for Something, Often Informally.

I'll hit you up for some advice before making a decision.

To Rob or Steal from Someone.

The thieves hit up several houses in the neighborhood last night.

Summary:

Hit up is a versatile phrasal verb that encompasses the ideas of visiting a place or person, asking for something, or, in a less common and more informal context, engaging in theft or robbery. Its usage can vary significantly, so understanding the context is crucial to interpret its intended meaning accurately.

Hit with

The phrasal verb hit with typically means to unexpectedly or suddenly experience something negative or challenging. It can also denote being affected by a particular situation or problem.

Meanings:

To be struck or affected by something unpleasant.

She was hit with a sudden wave of exhaustion after working for hours.

The company was hit with a financial crisis due to market fluctuations.

To be charged or confronted with something undesirable or unexpected.

He was hit with a hefty fine for violating traffic rules.

The team was hit with unexpected criticism from the media.

To experience the sudden onset of a particular emotion or sensation.

The children were hit with a sense of excitement when they saw the circus arrive in town.

I was hit with a pang of guilt when I realized I had forgotten her birthday.

Summary:

Hit with is a phrasal verb that expresses the sudden encounter or experience of something, often undesirable or unexpected. It can be used to describe various situations where someone or something is affected by an unforeseen event, a challenging circumstance, an emotion, a penalty, or unexpected consequences.

Understanding the nuances of phrasal verbs like hit with adds depth to English language proficiency, allowing for more precise and expressive communication in various contexts.

Hive off

Hive off is a phrasal verb that denotes the act of separating or extracting a part of a larger entity, often to form a distinct or independent unit. This expression is commonly used in business contexts to describe the process of creating a new subsidiary, department, or company by breaking away from an existing organization.

Meanings:

To separate or break away a part of a larger entity or organization to form an independent unit or company.

The company decided to hive off its software division into a separate business entity.

To transfer or delegate specific tasks, responsibilities, or functions to a separate group or entity.

The manager decided to hive off some of the administrative duties to a specialized team.

To sell or dispose of a subsidiary or section of a company.

The conglomerate plans to hive off its non-core assets to focus on its primary business operations.

Summary:

The phrasal verb hive off refers to the act of separating, breaking away, or creating a distinct entity or unit from a larger organization. It involves various contexts such as creating independence, delegating tasks, or divesting parts of a business. This term is commonly used in business and corporate settings to describe actions taken to create separate entities, delegate responsibilities, or sell off portions of a company for strategic, operational, or financial reasons.

Hold against

The phrasal verb hold against typically means to harbor negative feelings or resentment toward someone due to a past action or situation. It involves maintaining a grudge or bearing ill will towards an individual for something they've done.

Meanings:

To Blame or Maintain Resentment: It refers to the act of holding someone responsible for a past action or offense, maintaining a negative opinion or feeling towards them.

She still holds his betrayal against him, making it hard to trust him again.

To Keep in Mind: It can also denote the act of retaining a particular opinion or memory against someone, often influencing future interactions.

Despite his apology, she held his words against him and found it hard to forgive.

Summary:

The phrasal verb hold against encapsulates the retention of negative emotions or blame towards someone due to a past action or situation. It signifies the act of harboring resentment, maintaining a grudge, or bearing ill will towards an individual for something they have done. It can also involve keeping in mind a particular action or opinion, influencing future perceptions or interactions.

Hold back

Hold back is a phrasal verb that carries various meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Generally, it implies restraining or preventing something or someone from moving forward, progressing, or acting in a particular way.

Meanings:

To restrain or stop someone or something.

The police officer had to hold back the crowd from entering the restricted area.

To delay or refrain from doing something.

I had to hold back my laughter during the serious meeting.

To keep something secret or not reveal it.

She decided to hold back some crucial information until the right moment.

To reserve or keep a portion of something.

The chef decided to hold back some spices to adjust the flavor later.

Summary:

Hold back encompasses the act of restraining or preventing movement or action, delaying actions or emotions, keeping information undisclosed, or reserving a portion of something. Context determines the specific meaning of this phrasal verb, which can denote physical restraint, emotional suppression, secrecy, or reservation of resources or information.

Hold down

Hold down is a phrasal verb used to express the action of maintaining control, managing, or keeping something or someone in a particular position or situation. This phrase can have multiple meanings based on context.

Meanings:

To keep something secure or fixed in place.

She used bricks to hold down the tarp during the windy storm.

To maintain or secure a job or position.

He has been able to hold down a managerial position for over a decade due to his exceptional skills.

To suppress or control something, usually a feeling or emotion.

She struggled to hold down her excitement upon receiving the award.

To limit or control expenses, often in terms of budget or costs.

The company is trying to hold down expenses amidst the economic downturn.

Summary:

Hold down is a versatile phrasal verb that encapsulates various meanings related to maintaining, controlling, or securing something. It can refer to physically securing an object, maintaining a job or position, managing emotions, or controlling expenses. Context is crucial in understanding the intended meaning of this phrasal verb.

Hold forth

Hold forth is a phrasal verb that generally means to speak authoritatively or at length about a particular topic. It implies speaking confidently, often in a public or formal setting, sharing opinions, information, or expertise on a subject.

Meanings:

Speak at Length: To talk extensively or for a prolonged period about a subject, often in a confident or authoritative manner.

The professor held forth on the history of economics for nearly two hours.

Express Opinions or Ideas: To articulate and share one's thoughts, opinions, or ideas, often in a persuasive manner.

The politician held forth on the need for educational reform during the town hall meeting.

Act as an Authority: To present oneself as knowledgeable or an expert on a topic and speak with confidence.

The CEO held forth on the company's future strategies in the shareholders' meeting.

Summary:

Hold forth is a phrasal verb used to describe the act of speaking extensively, confidently, and often authoritatively about a particular subject. It involves expressing opinions, sharing information, or presenting oneself as an expert during discussions, presentations, or public speaking engagements. This phrase highlights a person's ability to speak at length with confidence and authority on a given topic.

Hold in

Hold in is a phrasal verb with various meanings depending on context. It generally implies restraining or controlling something physically or emotionally. It can refer to keeping something within, managing to suppress or control emotions, or maintaining physical restraint.

Meanings:

Contain or Restrain Physically: To keep something confined within a particular space or place.

She held in her breath as she squeezed through the narrow opening.

Suppress Emotions or Reactions: To control or suppress emotions, feelings, or reactions.

He struggled to hold in his laughter during the serious meeting.

Maintain Physical Restraint: To maintain control or prevent oneself from doing something physically.

The children tried to hold in their excitement before the surprise was revealed.

Summary:

Hold in is a versatile phrasal verb that denotes the act of restraining or controlling something, whether it's physical containment within a space, suppressing emotions or reactions, or maintaining physical restraint. This phrase is context-dependent and can convey different meanings based on the situation it is used in.

Hold off

The phrasal verb hold off is a versatile expression that can convey various meanings based on context. In general, it involves delaying or postponing something, often referring to actions, events, or decisions.

Meanings:

To delay or postpone something.

We decided to hold off the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts.

To resist or refrain from doing something.

He had to hold off from eating sweets to maintain a healthy diet.

To keep something or someone at a distance; to fend off or repel.

The goalkeeper managed to hold off the opposing team's attacks throughout the game.

Summary:

Hold off is a versatile phrasal verb that encompasses the ideas of postponing, resisting, refraining, or keeping something at bay. Its multiple meanings make it adaptable to various situations where a delay, restraint, or distance is required. Understanding the context in which it's used is crucial to grasp the specific meaning intended.

Hold on

Hold on is a phrasal verb used in various contexts to convey the idea of waiting, continuing to grasp or maintain something, or requesting someone to pause or wait momentarily.

Meanings:

To wait or pause.

Please hold on for a moment while I find the information you requested.

To grasp or maintain.

Hold on tight to the railing as you climb the stairs.

To endure or persevere.

We need to hold on a little longer; help is on the way.

To retain or keep possession.

I'll hold on to this book until you're finished with the one you're reading.

To maintain a telephone connection.

Can you hold on for a minute? I'll transfer your call to the appropriate department.

Summary:

The phrasal verb hold on encompasses several meanings, including waiting or pausing momentarily, maintaining a grip or possession, enduring or persevering through difficulties, and retaining something. It's a versatile phrase used in various contexts to denote different actions related to waiting, continuing, or maintaining something.

Hold onto

Hold onto is a phrasal verb that conveys the idea of gripping or maintaining possession of something physically or metaphorically. It implies keeping a tight grasp on an object, idea, emotion, or situation, often suggesting a sense of control, preservation, or persistence.

Meanings:

To maintain physical grip or possession.

She held onto the railing tightly as she descended the stairs.

To retain or keep something, either physically or figuratively.

He decided to hold onto his childhood memories despite the passage of time.

To persistently maintain or continue with something.

The team held onto their lead until the final minutes of the game.

To remember or not forget something.

I'll try to hold onto the advice you gave me; it's valuable.

Summary:

Hold onto is a versatile phrasal verb used in various contexts to denote the act of maintaining physical possession, retaining something (whether it's a physical object, memory, or idea), persisting with an action or situation, and remembering something important. Its flexibility allows for usage in both literal and metaphorical scenarios, emphasizing the idea of maintaining control, persistence, or retention of something valuable or significant.

Hold out

Hold out is a phrasal verb that has various meanings depending on the context. It generally refers to the act of resisting, waiting, or extending something, often involving the refusal to give in or to continue something.

Meanings:

To Resist or Endure.

The soldiers decided to hold out against the enemy's attacks for as long as possible.

To Wait for Something Expectantly.

The students were told to hold out for the arrival of the bus at the designated stop.

To Offer or Extend Something, Often Reluctantly.

The management agreed to hold out an offer of increased pay to the employees to prevent them from leaving the company.

To Continue an Action or Activity Despite Challenges.

Despite the difficulties, the team decided to hold out and finish the project before the deadline.

To Refuse to Agree or Give In.

The negotiators were determined to hold out for better terms in the contract.

Summary:

Hold out encompasses a range of meanings centered around resistance, endurance, waiting, and persistence. It can imply resisting something, waiting expectantly, offering or extending something, persevering despite challenges, or refusing to give in or agree to something. The context in which it's used determines the specific meaning of this phrasal verb.

Hold over

The phrasal verb hold over is a versatile expression that can convey different meanings based on the context in which it is used. Generally, it implies a continuation, delay, or extension of something, often a scheduled event or a decision.

Meanings:

To delay or postpone something.

The meeting was held over until next week due to the CEO's unexpected absence.

To retain a position, job, or authority for an extended period.

She was held over as the interim manager until a permanent replacement was found.

To have influence or power that lasts longer than expected or intended.

The actor's performance held the audience over for years, making him a timeless icon in cinema.

To continue or persist.

Despite the challenges, their enthusiasm held over, and they completed the project successfully.

Summary:

Hold over is a versatile phrasal verb that encompasses the notions of delaying, retaining a position, exerting lasting influence, or persisting over time. It can refer to the postponement of events, the continuation of a job or role, the lasting impact of something, or the persistence of a situation or emotion. The meaning is context-dependent and can vary in its usage across different scenarios.

Hold up

The phrasal verb hold up has several meanings, each conveying different nuances in context. It generally refers to supporting, delaying, enduring, or robbing.

Meanings:

Supporting or Sustaining: To physically or metaphorically support or withstand something.

The sturdy pillars hold up the roof of the old building.

Delaying or Postponing: To cause a delay or to postpone something.

Traffic held us up, making us late for the meeting.

Robbing or Stealing: To rob or steal from someone, often involving the use of force or threat.

The masked individuals held up the bank at gunpoint.

Summary:

The phrasal verb hold up encompasses various meanings, such as supporting something physically or figuratively, causing a delay or postponement, and also the act of robbing or stealing through force or threat. The context in which it's used determines the specific meaning it conveys, whether it pertains to providing support, causing a delay, or describing a criminal act.

Hole up

Hole up is a phrasal verb that means to hide, take refuge, or stay in a secure place, often to avoid danger or to protect oneself from adverse situations.

Meanings:

To Hide or Seek Shelter.

During the storm, the campers holed up in a sturdy cabin until the weather improved.

To Stay in Isolation.

The detective holed up in his office, sifting through evidence to solve the case.

To Conceal Oneself for Safety.

The fugitive holed up in an abandoned building until the authorities stopped searching for him.

Summary:

Hole up is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe seeking refuge or staying hidden in a secure place. It implies taking shelter or isolating oneself for safety, whether it's from a physical threat, adverse weather conditions, or to concentrate on a specific task without distractions.

Hoover up

Hoover up is a phrasal verb used informally, derived from the brand name Hoover, which is a vacuum cleaner. The phrase typically means to collect or gather something rapidly or in large quantities. It implies the action of cleaning up or picking up things quickly and thoroughly, akin to how a vacuum cleaner efficiently collects dust and dirt.

Meanings:

To collect or gather quickly: This meaning refers to swiftly gathering items or information, often in a thorough or efficient manner.

She hoovered up all the information about the project within a day.

To consume or eat rapidly: This usage signifies eating or consuming food hurriedly.

The kids managed to hoover up all the cookies in just a few minutes.

To acquire or obtain in abundance: This interpretation denotes obtaining or acquiring something in large quantities or quickly.

The company hoovered up several smaller businesses to expand its market share.

Summary:

Hoover up as a phrasal verb encapsulates the idea of swiftly collecting, consuming, or obtaining something in a comprehensive or rapid manner. It often implies efficiency and thoroughness, akin to how a vacuum cleaner efficiently gathers dirt or debris. Whether referring to gathering information, consuming food quickly, or acquiring something in abundance, this phrasal verb conveys the concept of doing so in a swift and thorough manner, much like a vacuum cleaner effectively collects debris.

Hop on

The phrasal verb hop on typically means to quickly get onto a mode of transportation, usually a bus, train, plane, or any vehicle that can be boarded.

Meanings:

Boarding or Getting onto a Vehicle.

We need to hurry up and hop on the bus before it leaves.

Joining or Participating Informally.

I'll hop on the conference call as soon as I finish this task.

Accepting or Adopting something Quickly.

She decided to hop on the new marketing strategy as it seemed promising.

Summary: