An Analysis of Phrasal Verbs in the Zootopia Movie

Abstract

Language serves as a crucial tool in human life for socializing and communication. For students in Indonesia, learning English, especially vocabulary, often poses challenges due to the abundance of words and the need for accurate usage within specific contexts. As an integral part of the English language, phrasal verbs are frequently perceived as difficult due to their multiple meanings, dependent on their usage context. This research aims to identify and analyze the phrasal verbs in the movie “Zootopia” as an effective learning medium. The study employs a qualitative descriptive approach with content analysis as the research method. Data are collected from the movie “Zootopia” through content analysis by identifying phrasal verbs, categorizing them based on their structure, meaning, and usage, and analyzing their contextual use in the film. Based on the analysis results, it is concluded that the movie “Zootopia” contains various phrasal verbs. It was found that transitive phrasal verbs with objects placed between the verb and particles are frequently used in the film to depict actions, interactions, and character intentions. This construction effectively portrays actions and interactions between characters, providing clarity and emphasizing specific involved objects. It also showcases physical movements and interactions, enhancing the depiction of character actions. Additionally, using two objects in transitive phrasal verbs highlights cognitive processes and physical interactions between characters and objects. These findings contribute to a better understanding of how language and linguistic devices are used in storytelling within filmmaking, especially in phrasal verb usage.