Identify transitive and intransitive verbs

key notes :

1. Definition of Verbs:

  • A verb is a word that shows an action, occurrence, or state of being.

2. Transitive Verbs:

  • A transitive verb is an action verb that requires a direct object to complete its meaning.
  • The direct object answers the question “What?” or “Whom?” after the verb.
  • Example 1: She kicked the ball.
    • (Verb: kicked; Direct object: ball)
  • Example 2: He read the book.
    • (Verb: read; Direct object: book)

3. Intransitive Verbs:

  • An intransitive verb does not require a direct object to complete its meaning.
  • The action is complete in itself, and no question of “What?” or “Whom?” needs to be answered.
  • Example 1: The baby laughed.
    • (Verb: laughed; no direct object)
  • Example 2: She arrived early.
    • (Verb: arrived; no direct object)

4. Examples of Transitive and Intransitive Verbs:

  • Transitive:
    • The teacher explained the lesson. (Direct object: lesson)
    • She brought a gift. (Direct object: gift)
  • Intransitive:
    • The children ran quickly. (No direct object)
    • The birds sang in the morning. (No direct object)

5. Some Verbs Can Be Both Transitive and Intransitive:

  • Some verbs can function as both transitive and intransitive, depending on how they are used in a sentence.
  • Example:
    • Transitive: She reads a book every day. (Direct object: book)
    • Intransitive: She reads every morning. (No direct object)

6. How to Identify Transitive and Intransitive Verbs:

  • Ask “What?” or “Whom?” after the verb.
    • If you get an answer, the verb is transitive.
    • If you don’t get an answer, the verb is intransitive.

7. Key Differences:

  • Transitive verbs need a direct object to complete the meaning of the sentence.
  • Intransitive verbs do not need a direct object and often express actions that stand alone.

8. Practice Sentences:

  • Transitive:
    • I carried the box. (What did I carry? The box.)
    • She watched the movie. (What did she watch? The movie.)
  • Intransitive:
    • They slept peacefully. (No object)
    • He arrived early. (No object)

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