Phrasal verbs with “crack” in English

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What are the phrasal verbs with the word “crack” in English?

The English language is full of phrasal verbs that are often a challenge to learn. One such interesting verb is “crack” [kræk], which is used in a variety of expressions, giving them a variety of meanings. You must have heard a lot about the word ‘crack’. This word has many associations and meanings. On the one hand, it may evoke associations with software hacking, excellent hacking skills, and the ability to penetrate secret systems. On the other hand, for many people it is already instantly associated with something else, perhaps with a small bag of powder sold under the counter or even with a chocolate dessert. But here it is worth stopping and considering its other aspects. Phrasal verbs with the word ‘crack’ are used in different contexts and have completely different meanings. These expressions extend its semantics and create unexpected connections that can be very interesting to explore. Let’s look at some interesting phrasal verbs where this word occurs.

TOP 10 phrasal verbs with “crack”

Here are the top 10 phrasal verbs with “crack,” along with their meanings and examples:

1. Crack down (on something/someone)

Meaning: To take strict action against something or someone, often to enforce rules or laws. Use more authority than usual.
Example: The government decided to crack down on illegal immigration, implementing stricter border controls.
Example: The police always crack down on drink-driving offences over the Christmas period.

2. Crack up

Meaning: To burst into laughter or to amuse greatly. Damage a car badly. Have bad reception on a mobile phone. Have a nervous breakdown.
Example: The comedian’s jokes made the audience crack up throughout the entire show.
Example: He cracked up after his son died and had to take a couple of months off work.
Example: You’ll have to talk louder- you’re cracking up.
Example: He cracked his car up last night when he came off the road.

3. Crack on (with something)

Meaning: To continue doing something with determination, especially after a pause or interruption.
Example: Despite facing difficulties, she decided to crack on with her studies and eventually succeeded.

4. Crack a joke

Meaning: To tell a joke or a funny story to make someone laugh.
Example: Trying to lighten the mood, he cracked a joke during the tense meeting.

5. Crack open

Meaning: To open something sealed or closed, often with force or effort.
Example: She managed to crack open the rusted lock on the old treasure chest.

6. Crack on (someone)

Meaning: To insult or make fun of someone.
Example: He always finds a way to crack on his friends, but it’s all in good humor.

7. Crack down (on someone)

Meaning: To scold, punish, or discipline someone for their behavior.
Example: The teacher had to crack down on the students who were disrupting the class.

8. Crack under (pressure)

Meaning: To succumb to stress or pressure, to lose control or composure.
Example: Some people tend to crack under pressure, but others perform better in challenging situations.

9. Crack in

Meaning: To develop a flaw or a small break in something.
Example: Over time, the wall began to crack in several places due to the building’s foundation issues.

10. Crack through

Meaning: To break through or penetrate something solid or tough.
Example: The new drill easily managed to crack through the hard surface of the concrete.

Mastering these phrasal verbs with “crack” can significantly enhance your English language skills and enable you to express various actions and ideas more effectively in different contexts. Phrasal verbs with the word “crack” will be useful in building spoken English and expanding vocabulary. Learning such expressions will help you express yourself more accurately and interestingly in English. Feel free to use these expressions in everyday communication, practice them and you will feel an improvement in your English communication.