Learn English Vocabulary

10 Phrasal verbs used in the news

Phrasal Verb Meaning Examples
Report on To provide information or details about a particular event or topic
  • The news anchor reported on the latest developments in the conflict.
  • The journalist reported on the economic situation in the country.
  • They reported on the impact of climate change on local communities.
  • We should report on the findings of the investigative report.
  • Let's report on the breaking news as soon as it comes in.
Cover up To conceal or hide information or details about a particular event or topic
  • The news outlet was accused of covering up the scandal.
  • The government attempted to cover up the incident to avoid public backlash.
  • They uncovered evidence of a cover-up during their investigation.
  • We should not cover up any wrongdoing; the public has a right to know.
  • Let's make sure to cover up sensitive information to protect privacy.
Break in To interrupt regular programming with breaking news or urgent updates
  • The news anchor broke in with a live report from the scene of the accident.
  • The station broke in with news of a natural disaster occurring nearby.
  • They broke in to provide updates on the developing situation.
  • We should break in with any new information as soon as we receive it.
  • Let's break in with a special report to cover the emergency situation.
Follow up To provide additional information or updates on a previous news story
  • The reporter followed up with interviews from eyewitnesses.
  • The news program followed up on the investigation into the crime.
  • They followed up with a special segment on the anniversary of the event.
  • We should follow up with any new developments as they occur.
  • Let's make sure to follow up on any leads to uncover the truth.
Break down To analyze or explain complex information or statistics in simpler terms
  • The analyst broke down the economic data for viewers to understand.
  • The presenter broke down the election results by demographic groups.
  • They broke down the science behind the new medical discovery.
  • We should break down the numbers to see the impact on everyday people.
  • Let's break down the issue into its key components for better clarity.
Dig up To uncover or discover new information, often through investigation
  • The investigative journalist dug up evidence of corruption within the government.
  • The reporter dug up information about the candidate's past scandals.
  • They dug up old footage of the celebrity's early career.
  • We should dig up any relevant documents to support our report.
  • Let's dig up more background information on the story before airing it.
Highlight To focus attention on or give special importance to a particular aspect
  • The news program highlighted the achievements of local heroes.
  • The presenter highlighted the key points of the speech in her recap.
  • They highlighted the importance of community involvement in solving problems.
  • We should highlight the positive contributions of volunteers to society.
  • Let's highlight the success stories to inspire others.
Spin off To create a new program or segment based on an existing news story or theme
  • The news network spun off a series of documentaries from their investigative reports.
  • The program spun off a special segment focusing on health and wellness.
  • They spun off a new show from the success of their political coverage.
  • We should spin off additional content to explore related topics in depth.
  • Let's spin off a series of interviews with experts to complement our main program.
Go over To review or discuss in detail
  • The host went over the main headlines of the day.
  • The journalist went over the key points of the investigative report.
  • They went over the timeline of events leading up to the crisis.
  • We should go over the facts to ensure accuracy in our reporting.
  • Let's go over the interview questions before the guest arrives.
Wrap up To conclude or summarize a news segment or program
  • The anchor wrapped up the broadcast with a closing statement.
  • The reporter wrapped up the story with a final update.
  • They wrapped up the interview by thanking the guest for their time.
  • We should wrap up the program with a recap of the main stories.
  • Let's wrap up the discussion with some closing remarks.