Sit combines with a number of particles to form phrasal verbs, many of which are used in everyday conversation. The exercise below covers the most common combinations. Definitions are provided in brackets throughout.
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Choose the correct preposition or particle to complete each of the following sentences.
1.I won't participate this time. = I'm going to sit this one ________.
Correct answer: out — sit out = not participate in an activity.
2.The students were sitting ________ to protest the war.
Correct answer: in — sit-in = a form of protest where participants occupy a place and refuse to leave.
3.Do you want me to just sit ________ doing nothing?
Correct answer: around — sit around = spend time doing nothing useful.
4.Once we got to the country house, we just wanted to sit ________ and enjoy the scenery.
Correct answer: back — sit back = relax and not take action.
5.Why are you standing up? You should sit ________.
Correct answer: down — sit down = take a seat.
6.The photographer never had any trouble finding models to sit ________ him.
Correct answer: for — sit for = pose for an artist or photographer.
7.Her parents don't like her new career path. = Her new career path doesn't sit well ________ her parents.
Correct answer: with — sit well with someone = be acceptable or pleasing to them.
8.I can't make the meeting. Do you mind sitting ________ me? (= taking my place)
Correct answer: in for — sit in for someone = temporarily take their place.
9.We didn't finish the movie. We just couldn't sit ________ the whole thing.
Correct answer: through — sit through = endure something unpleasant or boring to the end.
10.His mom told him that if he didn't sit ________ in his chair, he would have bad posture.
Correct answer: up — sit up = hold your body in an upright position.