Introduction

Georgie teaches you some phrasal verbs that can be used to talk about technology. 

Phrasal verbs mentioned

log/sign in 
enter your username and password to access a computer system

  • I can’t log in because I’m struggling to remember my password!

log/sign out 
to exit or end your computer session 

  • Remember to log out of your online banking after use so no one else can access your details. 

sign up
register or create an account for a service or website

  • If you want to be the first to hear about concert tickets, sign up to the mailing list. 

scroll through
move through information or images on a screen with a dragging or swiping motion 

  • I want to read more books, but first I need to break the habit of scrolling through social media whenever I’m bored. 

turn/switch (something) on
give power to, or activate a device or system

  • I was bored, so I turned the TV on and started watching. 

turn/switch (something) off
stop the power of a device or system 

  • Remember to turn off your computer before you leave the office. 

turn (something) up
increase the volume or intensity of something

  • I can’t hear the TV – can you turn it up? 

turn (something) down
decrease the volume or intensity of something 

  • The party next door is so noisy. Shall we ask them to turn the music down?

set (something) up
start or prepare a programme or device so that you can use it

  • My grandparents have finally got wi-fi, but I need to help them set it up. 

TOP TIPS!

  • If you see the word ‘something’, it usually means the verb requires an object.
  • If ‘something’ is in the middle of the phrasal verb, it means that it can be separated by the object (but doesn’t have to be).
  • If ‘something’ is at the end of the phrasal verb, it means it cannot be separated.
  • When a pronoun, e.g. him, her, them, is the object of a separable phrasal verb, it must go between the verb and the particle.