Transitive Verbs

Definition

Transitive verbs are action verbs that require one or more objects to complete their meaning. They differ from intransitive verbs, which do not take an object. Understanding transitive verbs is crucial for constructing clear sentences where the action is directed toward a noun or pronoun.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transitive verbs can take multiple objects, including direct and indirect objects, making them versatile in sentence construction.
2. Common examples of transitive verbs include 'give', 'send', and 'show', all of which need objects to convey complete thoughts.
3. The presence of a direct object after a transitive verb helps clarify who or what is receiving the action.
4. Transitive verbs are often used in sentences where the subject performs an action on someone or something, creating a clear connection between the subject and the object.
5. Identifying whether a verb is transitive can be done by checking if asking 'what?' or 'whom?' after the verb provides a meaningful answer.

Review Questions

• How do transitive verbs function within a sentence to create meaning?
  • Transitive verbs function by linking the subject of the sentence to an object that receives the action. For instance, in the sentence 'She kicked the ball,' 'kicked' is the transitive verb, with 'the ball' serving as the direct object. This connection helps clarify who is performing the action and who or what is affected by it.
• Discuss how understanding transitive verbs can enhance sentence structure and clarity.
  • Understanding transitive verbs allows for improved sentence structure by ensuring that actions are clearly directed toward objects. When writers correctly identify and use transitive verbs, they can avoid ambiguity in their sentences. For example, instead of saying 'He read,' which leaves out important details, saying 'He read the book' specifies what was read, enhancing clarity and understanding.
• Evaluate the role of transitive verbs in conveying complex ideas within written communication.
  • Transitive verbs play a vital role in conveying complex ideas as they establish clear relationships between subjects and their actions on objects. By using transitive verbs effectively, writers can create more detailed and informative sentences that articulate nuanced meanings. For instance, rather than simply stating 'They created,' a more detailed statement like 'They created a plan' provides greater insight into what was done, thus enriching communication and enhancing reader comprehension.

Related terms

Direct Object: A noun or pronoun that receives the action of a transitive verb, answering the question 'what?' or 'whom?' after the verb.

Intransitive Verb: A verb that does not require an object to complete its meaning, indicating an action that does not pass onto a receiver.

Subject: The noun or pronoun that performs the action of the verb in a sentence, often found before the verb.