Transitive Verbs:
* Definition: Transitive verbs require a direct object to complete their meaning. The direct object is the receiver of the action.
* Structure: Subject + Verb + Direct Object
* Example:
* She wrote (intransitive - action is incomplete)
* She wrote a letter. (transitive - "letter" is the direct object, receiving the action of writing)
Intransitive Verbs:
* Definition: Intransitive verbs do not require a direct object. They express a complete action without needing a receiver.
* Structure: Subject + Verb
* Example:
* The bird sings. (Intransitive - the action of singing is complete without a receiver)
* He sleeps. (Intransitive - the action of sleeping is complete)
Key Differences:
* Object: Transitive verbs need a direct object, intransitive verbs do not.
* Meaning: Transitive verbs convey an action directed towards something, while intransitive verbs convey an action without a specific target.
Here's a helpful way to think about it:
* Transitive: Think of "transferring" the action to something (the direct object).
* Intransitive: Think of an action that happens "within" the subject, without being directed at anything else.
Examples:
* Transitive:
* The dog chased the ball. (chased what? the ball)
* She bought a new car. (bought what? a new car)
* Intransitive:
* The baby cried. (cried at what? nothing - it's a complete action)
* The sun shines. (shines on what? nothing specific - it's a complete action)
Note: Some verbs can be both transitive and intransitive depending on the sentence. For example:
* He opened the door. (Transitive - "door" is the direct object)
* The door opened. (Intransitive - no direct object, the door is performing the action)