Question

Difficulty: MediumPhrasal Verbs and Prepositional Verbs

Match each phrasal verb on the left with its correct contextual meaning on the right.

  • fall back onTo resort to an alternative plan or resource when the primary option fails
  • iron outTo resolve or settle minor problems, details, or differences
  • zero in onTo direct all one's focus and attention toward a specific objective
  • chime inTo interject or express an opinion in an ongoing conversation

Answer

'fall back on' matches 'To resort to an alternative plan or resource when the primary option fails'; 'iron out' matches 'To resolve or settle minor problems, details, or differences'; 'zero in on' matches 'To direct all one's focus and attention toward a specific objective'; and 'chime in' matches 'To interject or express an opinion in an ongoing conversation'.
Each phrasal verb correctly pairs with its standardized idiomatic English definition: 'fall back on' denotes having recourse to a contingency plan; 'iron out' denotes eliminating difficulties or settling details; 'zero in on' denotes concentrating strictly on a goal; and 'chime in' denotes breaking into dialogue to offer input.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the particle combinations and idiomatic functions of each verb stem.
Identified 'fall back on' as a multi-word phrasal verb expressing reliance on reserves, and 'iron out' as a figurative verb meaning to smooth or resolve issues.
Understanding particle meanings in phrasal verbs distinguishes literal actions from idiomatic uses.
2
Match 'zero in on' and 'chime in' to their precise definitions.
'zero in on' indicates targeted focus, while 'chime in' indicates interjecting in speech.
Prepositional combinations modify the core verb stem to convey specific conversational or analytical actions.

Key Concept

Phrasal Verbs and Prepositional Verbs
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