Archive for March 17, 2010

inseparable phrasal verb: own up to

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Today’s phrasal verb is “own up to” and it is inseparable. This phrasal verb means for someone to admit to a bad thing they have done. The bad thing could have been done on purpose, or it could have been an accident; it doesn’t matter. For example:

I know my brother stole money from my wallet, but I’m sure he’ll never own up to it.

Someone broke the photocopier at the office. We didn’t know who did it, but finally Rex owned up to it and apologized.

I know it was you who stole my idea and gave it to the boss! Why don’t you just own up to it?

As you can see, we usually use this phrasal verb by explaining the bad situation first, and then talking about the person who admits to causing it.

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