All Ears English Podcast AEE 2552: How to Master Confusing Past Tense Verbs in English
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Jan 21, 2026 Confused about past tense verbs? The hosts dive into the quirks of two-word verbs and simplify why terms like 'blow dry' are treated differently. They explore how compound verbs differ from phrasal verbs, showcasing examples like 'blew out' and 'blew up.' A fun role-play illustrates these verbs in action, while they highlight common learner mistakes. Added bonuses include tips on how not to overly correct native speakers and an exciting teaser for a three-part series on related verbs!
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Native Speakers Get Confused Too
- Aubrey described saying "I blew dry my hair" and pausing to think which form is correct.
- This shows native speakers also hesitate with multiword verbs in the past tense.
Compound Vs. Phrasal Verbs
- A compound verb is any verb made of multiple words, like babysit or daydream.
- A phrasal verb is a compound verb whose meaning changes when combined with a particle.
Words Can Be Both Types
- Many multiword verbs can act as either a compound verb or a phrasal verb depending on context.
- This dual role changes how the verb behaves grammatically and semantically.