Phrasal Verbs:
* Structure: Consist of a verb + a preposition or adverb (or both)
* Meaning: Usually have a more concrete meaning related to the verb.
* Flexibility: Can often be separated (e.g., "put on your coat" can be "put your coat on").
* Example: "look up" (search for information), "turn off" (stop something), "get along" (have a good relationship).
Idioms:
* Structure: Can have various structures, often containing prepositions, adverbs, or nouns.
* Meaning: Usually have a figurative or metaphorical meaning, often unrelated to the literal meaning of the words.
* Flexibility: Generally cannot be separated and often have a fixed structure.
* Example: "kick the bucket" (die), "spill the beans" (reveal a secret), "once in a blue moon" (rarely).
Here's a table summarizing the differences:
| Feature | Phrasal Verb | Idiom |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Verb + preposition/adverb | Varied structure |
| Meaning | Concrete, related to the verb | Figurative, often unrelated to the words |
| Flexibility | Can often be separated | Fixed structure, usually not separable |
| Example | "look up," "turn off," "get along" | "kick the bucket," "spill the beans," "once in a blue moon" |
Key Takeaway: Phrasal verbs are more literal and flexible, while idioms are figurative and fixed.
Think of it this way: Phrasal verbs are like building blocks with clear, definable meanings that you can put together to create new meanings. Idioms are like pre-made phrases that have a specific, often metaphorical meaning.