What does the phrasal verb “fall under” mean?

What are the definitions of “fall under”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Become controlled.

  At first he was independent, but then he FELL UNDER their influence.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fall under”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fall under is to become controlled or influenced by someone or something. It often refers to being under the authority or jurisdiction of a person, group, or organization.

What are the different verb forms of “fall under”?

Root Verb	fall under
Third Person Singular Present	falls under
Present Participle	falling under
Simple Past	fell under
Past Participle	fallen under

Example

This new regulation falls under the jurisdiction of the local government.

Example

The responsibility for this task falls under her department.

Example

The new employees are falling under the guidance of their team leader.

Example

The small business fell under the control of a larger corporation.

Example

The territory has fallen under the control of the neighboring country.

What kind of phrasal verb is “fall under”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“fall under” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

The new law falls under federal jurisdiction.

Example

The decision fell under the authority of the board.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“fall under” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

The new law falls under federal jurisdiction.

Example

The decision fell under the authority of the board.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fall under”?

Fall under the spell of

To become captivated or enchanted by someone or something.

Example

She fell under the spell of the charismatic speaker and joined the movement.

Fall under the category of

To be classified or grouped within a specific category.

Example

This type of behavior falls under the category of unacceptable conduct at work.

Fall under the radar

To go unnoticed or undetected.

Example

His quiet demeanor allowed him to fall under the radar and avoid attention.

Good things to know

Does “fall under” have an informal or formal tone?

Fall under is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “fall under”?

Synonyms

• come under
• be subject to
• be controlled by
• be governed by
• be influenced by
• be affected by

Antonyms

• break free
• gain independence
• resist control
• overcome influence
• assert autonomy