Transitive Verbs

Definition

Transitive verbs are action verbs that require a direct object to complete their meaning. They express an action that is performed by the subject and transferred to an object, making them crucial for conveying clear and complete thoughts in sentences. Understanding transitive verbs helps in constructing grammatically correct sentences and recognizing the relationship between subjects, actions, and objects.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transitive verbs can be identified by asking 'what?' or 'whom?' after the verb; if an answer is provided, it indicates the presence of a direct object.
2. Examples of transitive verbs include 'give', 'see', and 'eat', where each requires a direct object for a complete thought.
3. The presence of a direct object transforms an otherwise incomplete sentence into a full one, allowing for more precise communication.
4. Not all action verbs are transitive; some can function as intransitive depending on how they are used in a sentence.
5. Transitive verbs play a significant role in sentence structure, affecting how sentences are constructed and understood.

Review Questions

• How do you identify a transitive verb in a sentence?
  • To identify a transitive verb, look for an action verb followed by a direct object. You can ask the questions 'what?' or 'whom?' after the verb. For example, in the sentence 'She kicked the ball,' 'kicked' is the transitive verb, and 'the ball' is the direct object answering the question 'what did she kick?'. This connection shows how transitive verbs work with direct objects to convey complete actions.
• Compare and contrast transitive verbs with intransitive verbs, providing examples of each.
  • Transitive verbs require a direct object to complete their meaning, like in 'He reads the book,' where 'the book' is the direct object receiving the action. In contrast, intransitive verbs do not need a direct object; for example, 'She sleeps peacefully' contains no object. Understanding this distinction helps clarify sentence structure and enhances grammatical accuracy when writing.
• Evaluate the importance of recognizing transitive verbs when constructing effective sentences.
  • Recognizing transitive verbs is essential for crafting effective sentences because it ensures clarity and completeness in communication. By understanding how transitive verbs work with direct objects, writers can create more precise statements that convey specific actions and relationships. This knowledge also aids in avoiding grammatical errors, allowing for clearer expression of ideas and smoother reading experiences for audiences.

Related terms

Direct Object: A direct object is the noun or pronoun that receives the action of a transitive verb, answering the questions 'what?' or 'whom?'

Intransitive Verbs: Intransitive verbs are action verbs that do not require a direct object to complete their meaning, often standing alone or followed by adverbial phrases.

Action Verbs: Action verbs describe actions or states of being and can be either transitive or intransitive depending on whether they require an object.