Phrasal Verb: Break Up / Set Up

Break up and set up are two common English phrasal verbs used in very different contexts, relationships and business. This lesson explains both clearly. Break up means to end a relationship, as in they broke up after three years together, a phrase used specifically for romantic relationships ending. Set up means to arrange or start something, as in they set up a new company last year, commonly used in business and organizational contexts. Despite sounding similar, these phrasal verbs describe opposite ideas: one about ending something, the other about starting something. Break up is essential vocabulary for talking about relationships and personal life, while set up is widely used in professional and business English. Learning both will expand your vocabulary across very different areas of everyday conversation, from personal stories to workplace discussions.