10 English Phrasal Verbs for Talking about Time.

How much time do you set aside for learning phrasal verbs?

Understanding phrasal verbs is key to sounding more natural in English, and when it comes to talking about time, we use them all the time (pun intended!). Whether you're discussing past events, making plans, or feeling like time is slipping away, these phrasal verbs will help you express yourself fluently and confidently.

1. Run out of

This phrasal verb is used when you have completely used up a resource and there is none left. It’s commonly used when talking about time, but also money or energy.

Meaning: This phrasal verb is used when you have completely used up a resource and there is none left. It’s commonly used when talking about time, but also money or energy.

Example: I can't believe we’ve run out of time! We still have so much to discuss.

2. Set aside

This phrasal verb means to reserve or allocate something, often time or money, for a specific purpose.

Meaning: This phrasal verb means to reserve or allocate something, often time or money, for a specific purpose.

Example: You should set aside at least an hour a day for studying English.

3. Put off

Meaning: A very common phrasal verb, 'put off' means to postpone or delay something until later. This is a very handy phrasal verb for procrastinators!

Example: I keep putting off my dentist appointment, but I really need to go.

4. Take up

Meaning: This phrasal verb is used when something occupies or consumes time, space, or attention.

Example: Scrolling through social media takes up too much of my free time!

5. Keep up with

Meaning: This phrasal verb refers to maintaining the same pace or staying updated with something or someone.

Example: I can’t keep up with all the new trends on Instagram!

6. Wind up

Meaning: This phrasal verb can be used to describe how something ends or concludes, often in an unexpected way.

Example: We planned to leave early, but we wound up staying at the party until midnight.

7. Turn back

Meaning: This phrasal verb means to return to a previous state or time.

Example: I wish we could turn back time and relive our holiday in Italy.

8. Look forward to

Meaning: A positive phrasal verb used to express excitement or anticipation for a future event.

Example: I’m really looking forward to my weekend getaway!

9. Slip away

Meaning: This phrasal verb is used when time passes quickly or unnoticed.

Example: The afternoon just slipped away while we were chatting.

10. Hold up

Meaning: This phrasal verb is often used to describe a delay or interruption.

Example: Sorry I’m late! I got held up in traffic.

How to Use These Phrasal Verbs in Conversation

The best way to remember phrasal verbs is to use them in real-life conversations. Try incorporating them into your daily routine—whether you’re talking about your schedule, reminiscing about the past, or planning for the future.