Distinguishing phrasal verbs from prepositional verbs in complex contexts
Q1. In 'look after the children', is 'after' a particle or preposition?
LOOK AFTER is a prepositional verb. Inseparable. Grammar categorises. Labels assist.
Q2. In 'turn off the lights', is 'off' a particle or preposition?
TURN OFF is a phrasal verb. Separable. Grammar distinguishes. Patterns emerge.
Q3. Prepositional verbs require the object to come ___ the preposition
Prepositional verbs are inseparable. Objects follow. Rules are consistent.
Q4. Phrasal verbs with pronouns require the pronoun to come ___ the particle
Pronouns must precede particles in separable phrasal verbs. Grammar insists. Exceptions are few.
Q5. Which type allows more flexibility with object position?
Phrasal verbs allow flexibility (except with pronouns). Prepositional verbs do not. Distinction matters.