Phrasal Verbs A to Z

Refining Communication: Mastering Phrasal Verbs Starting with "R"

Introduction

Phrasal verbs are a dynamic and essential part of the English language, adding depth and nuance to communication. For ESL learners, achieving fluency involves mastering these versatile expressions, particularly those starting with the letter "R". This lesson is dedicated to exploring phrasal verbs that begin with "R", offering insights into their meanings and demonstrating their use in context. By the end of this guide, learners will have expanded their vocabulary, enabling them to express themselves more clearly and effectively in both spoken and written English.

1. Run across: To find or encounter something or someone by chance.

   • Example: I ran across an old friend in the city yesterday.

2. Run after: To chase or pursue.

   • Example: The police are running after the thief who escaped.

3. Run away: To escape from a place or situation.

   • Example: The child ran away from home.

4. Run down: To criticize; also, to hit someone with a vehicle.

   • Example: Don't run down other people's efforts. / He was nearly run down by a car.

5. Run into: To meet someone unexpectedly; to encounter problems.

   • Example: I ran into my teacher at the supermarket.

6. Run out of: To use all of something and have none left.

   • Example: We've run out of milk.

7. Run over: To go over something quickly; also, to hit with a vehicle.

   • Example: Let's run over the plans once more.

8. Run through: To rehearse; to pierce.

   • Example: Let's run through the presentation again.

9. Run up: To accumulate.

   • Example: She ran up a huge phone bill last month.

10. Reach out: To contact or ask for help.

    • Example: If you need help, don't hesitate to reach out to me.

11. Rip off: To cheat or swindle.

    • Example: I felt ripped off after paying too much for a cheap watch.

12. Roll back: To reduce or decrease.

    • Example: The government plans to roll back taxes.

13. Roll out: To introduce or launch.

    • Example: The company is rolling out a new product line next month.

14. Roll up: To arrive; to gather.

    • Example: He rolled up to the party in style.

15. Root out: To find and remove.

    • Example: The new policy aims to root out corruption.

16. Rub off on: To influence someone through close association.

    • Example: His enthusiasm for music has rubbed off on me.

17. Rub out: To erase; to kill.

    • Example: The mobster was rubbed out by a rival gang.

18. Rule out: To eliminate or exclude.

    • Example: We can't rule out the possibility of rain tomorrow.

19. Rustle up: To quickly prepare or make something to eat.

    • Example: Can you rustle up something for dinner?

20. Rack up: To accumulate or gather.

    • Example: He racked up a lot of debt while in college.

21. Rattle off: To recite quickly without much thought.

    • Example: She rattled off the list of ingredients needed.

22. Rev up: To increase in activity or speed; to excite.

    • Example: The company is revving up for the product launch.

23. Round off: To complete or finish something in a satisfactory manner.

    • Example: Let's round off the evening with a dessert.

24. Round up: To gather or collect.

    • Example: The police rounded up the suspects.

25. Reel in: To attract or lure.

    • Example: The new ad campaign is designed to reel in younger customers.

26. Ring up: To record a sale on a cash register; to call on the telephone.

    • Example: She rang up our groceries quickly.

27. Rile up: To make someone angry or upset.

    • Example: His comments riled up the crowd.

28. Rise above: To not allow oneself to be hurt or controlled by (something bad).

    • Example: She rose above the criticism and continued with her work.

29. Roll over: To extend the term of an agreement; for a pet to lie on its back.

    • Example: They decided to roll over the loan for another year.

30. Reach for: To attempt to achieve or obtain something.

    • Example: Always reach for your dreams, no matter how far they seem.

By familiarizing yourself with these "R" starting phrasal verbs, you'll be taking a significant step towards enhancing your English vocabulary and improving your ability to express complex ideas and emotions. Regular practice in using these verbs in conversations and writing will help cement your understanding and ensure these expressions become a natural part of your English repertoire.