| One distinction made with verbs is whether the verb is
transitive or intransitive. This distinction exists mostly within
the realm of expectation of a direct object for the given
verb.
A transitive verb expects a direct object, i.e. there must be a direct recipient of the action of the verb in order to complete the verbal notion of the verb. An intransitive verb does not expect a direct object, i.e. there is no direct recipient of the action of the verb. The verb is an action that does not transfer the action from the subject to a direct object. Here are some English examples of intransitive and transitive verbs:
Motion verbs are generally intransitive. Some verbs can be transitive or intransitive, but the meaning will change based on whether the verb is being used transitively or intransitively. For example, you can walk (intransitive) or you can walk to dog (transitive). You can also return (to) home (intransitive) or return a book to the library (transitive). |
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Last Updated March 18, 2003 Questions, comments and corrections should be sent to Brian K. Harvey, Kent State University |
