Select the word that can best replace the underlined phrasal verb:
Rohan has missed three practice sessions this month, and the coach has warned him that he will be dropped if he does not shape up.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → improve
A phrasal verb is a verb joined with a small word such as up, out or together. The two words together have a new meaning.
Shape up means to start to behave or work better, as one should. Its closest meaning is improve. Example: The class teacher told Aryan to shape up or miss the school trip.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) apologise | to say sorry for something wrong one has done | Sahil apologised to his friend for reaching late. |
| (2) relax | to rest and become calm | After the exams, we relaxed at Nani’s house for a week. |
| (3) improve (answer) | to become better (same as shape up) | Meena’s handwriting improved after a month of practice. |
| (4) complain | to say that one is unhappy about something | The residents complained about the broken streetlight. |