Transitive Verbs
* Definition: Transitive verbs require a direct object. The direct object is the receiver of the verb's action.
* Think of it as: The verb "transfers" action to something or someone.
Examples:
* She *wrote* a letter. ("Letter" is the direct object – it receives the action of writing.)
* The dog *chewed* the bone. ("Bone" is the direct object – it receives the action of chewing.)
* He *gave* her a gift. ("Gift" is the direct object – it receives the action of giving.)
Intransitive Verbs
* Definition: Intransitive verbs do not require a direct object. They express an action or state of being that doesn't directly affect something else.
* Think of it as: The action is complete within the verb itself.
Examples:
* The baby *slept* soundly. (No direct object – sleeping is an action the baby performs without affecting anything else.)
* The birds *sang* in the trees. (No direct object – singing is an action the birds perform without affecting anything else.)
* He *ran* quickly. (No direct object – running is an action he performs without affecting anything else.)
Key Point: Some verbs can be both transitive and intransitive depending on the context.
Example:
* Transitive: He opened the door. (Direct object: "door")
* Intransitive: The door opened. (No direct object)
Understanding the Difference
Think about the flow of action:
* Transitive: Action flows *from* the verb *to* the direct object.
* Intransitive: Action is contained *within* the verb itself.
Let me know if you'd like more examples or have any other questions!