call on, turn down, break down, yammer on, pick on: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Phrasal Verbs set 10. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. call on · phrasal verb

   request for help or information

   An international group of public health experts has called on The World Health Organization to combat detrimental health environments.

   Synonyms: turn to, ask for help

2. turn down · phrasal verb

   refuse

   I would definitely not turn down the job if I didn't have to move.

   Synonyms: reject, dismiss

3. break down · phrasal verb

   lose control of one's emotions

   Several spectators broke down in tears when they heard their national anthem played at the World Cup.

   Synonyms: lose it, collapse

4. yammer on · phrasal verb

   to talk continuously in an irritating way

   It's been three months since the accident and he's still yammering on about the same thing every single day.

   Synonyms: talk loudly, whine

5. pick on · phrasal verb

   bully or harass someone

   This short story tells about a girl named Amanda, who was always picked on at school by this bully named Gunther.

   Synonyms: bully, tease, torment