How modal verbs combine with phrasal verbs to express nuance
Q1. You should think this ___ before committing
SHOULD THINK THROUGH expresses advice. Decisions require consideration. Impulse is cautioned.
Q2. She might back ___ at the last moment
MIGHT BACK OUT expresses possibility. Commitments are uncertain. Hesitation is human.
Q3. They must carry ___ regardless of obstacles
MUST CARRY ON expresses obligation. Obstacles exist. Persistence is required.
Q4. He could not put ___ with it any longer
COULD NOT PUT UP WITH expresses exhausted tolerance. Limits are reached. Breaking points arrive.
Q5. We would not give ___ without a fight
WOULD NOT GIVE UP expresses determined refusal. Surrender is declined. Fight remains.