Exploring Phrasal Verbs in L2 English: A Comparative Corpus-Based Study of Written Production by Italian and German Learners

This dissertation investigates the use of transitive phrasal verbs in English as a second language by Italian and German learners through a comparative corpus-based analysis. Drawing on data spanning proficiency levels from B2 to C1, the study examines patterns of usage and frequency of phrasal verbs in the written production of these two learner groups. A comparison is also made with native English speakers to highlight differences and areas of divergence. By analyzing linguistic tendencies, this study aims to explore how learners' native languages shape their use of phrasal verbs and to shed light on how language-specific factors impact learning English as a second language.