Understanding Phrasal Verbs: Disposing of Items

The question asks to find the most appropriate substitute for the underlined segment "disposed" in the sentence: "They have disposed all the old books." This sentence uses the verb "dispose". Let's look at how "dispose" is typically used, especially when talking about getting rid of something.

The Verb 'Dispose' and Phrasal Verbs

The verb 'dispose' means to get rid of something, sell it, or transfer it. However, when used in this sense, it almost always requires a preposition, forming a phrasal verb.

Analyzing the Options for 'Disposed'

Let's examine the given options to see which preposition correctly completes the phrasal verb 'dispose' in the context of getting rid of books:

• Option 1: disposed of
  The phrasal verb "dispose of" means to get rid of something. This fits the context of getting rid of old books.
• Option 2: disposed out
  "Disposed out" is not a standard or commonly used phrasal verb in English meaning to get rid of something.
• Option 3: disposed on
  "Disposed on" does not form a standard phrasal verb meaning to get rid of something. 'On' usually indicates position or time.
• Option 4: disposed by
  "Disposed by" is not a standard phrasal verb for getting rid of something. 'By' can indicate agency or method, but not completion of the action of getting rid of something in this way.

Correct Usage: Dispose Of

The correct phrasal verb needed to express the idea of getting rid of the old books is "dispose of". The original sentence "They have disposed all the old books" is grammatically incomplete because "dispose" in this context requires "of". The completed sentence with the correct phrasal verb would be "They have disposed of all the old books."

Why 'disposed of' is the Most Appropriate Substitute

Considering the meaning intended by the sentence (getting rid of old books), the phrasal verb "dispose of" is the correct and standard English usage. Therefore, "disposed of" is the most appropriate substitute for the underlined segment "disposed".

Conclusion on Substituting 'Disposed'

Based on the analysis of the phrasal verb "dispose of" and the meaning of the sentence, the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment "disposed" is "disposed of".

Revision Table: Phrasal Verb 'Dispose Of'

Understanding 'dispose of' is key here:

• Meaning: To get rid of something; to throw away or sell something.
• Structure: dispose + of + object
• Examples:
  • Please dispose of your waste properly.
  • They plan to dispose of their old car.
  • The company disposed of its assets.

Additional Information: Common Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs are common in English and often consist of a verb and a preposition or adverb, creating a new meaning. Understanding them is important for correct grammar usage.

• Examples of other common phrasal verbs:
  • Break down (stop working)
  • Look after (take care of)
  • Give up (stop trying)
  • Put off (postpone)
• Always check the correct preposition or adverb needed to form a phrasal verb and understand its specific meaning.