有很多动词可以和一个介词或与之同形的副词构成成语，意思和一个单一的动词差不多，如：
This calls for (=requires) quick action.
这要求快速行动。
The party has been called off (=cancelled).
晚会取消了。
这类动词称为成语动词。英语中的成语动词主要有下面五类：
1.动词+副词(不跟宾语)：
War broke out in 1939.
战争于1939年爆发。
I give in, I can't solve the riddle.
我放弃，这个谜我猜不着。
How did that come about?
这事怎样发牛的?
2.动词+介词(跟宾语)：
She asked after his father.
她向他父亲问好。
Who is looking after the children?
准在看孩予?
I'll call on my new neighbors tomorrow.
我明天去看望我的新邻居。
3.及物动词+副词(跟宾语，宾语短时可夹在中问)：
Put away those dishes.(Put them away.)
把盘子取走。
He pointed out my mistake.(He pointed it out.)
他指出了我的错误。
He turned on the radio (turned the radio on).
他把收音机打开了。
4.及物动词+宾语+副词：
She loved to order people about.
她喜欢对人发号施令。
I can't tell them apart.
我不能把他们区分开。
If you're going to the cinema, count me in.
如果你们去看电影算我一个。
5.动词+副词+介词：
I am looking forward to seeing you.
我盼望见到你。
Watch out for pickpockets!
小心扒手!
I'll try to catch up with the rest of the class.
我要设法赶上班上其他人。
另外还有下面两类也可说是成语动词：
1.动词+名词+介词：
take care of 照顾
pay attention to 注意
give rise to 引起
put an end to 结束
2.be+形容词+介词：
be fond of 喜炊
be familiar with 熟悉
be used to 习惯于
be suitable for适合
