Verbs that take an object are called transitive verbs. Verbs that do not have an object are called intransitive verbs.

Examples are given below.

• He spoke eloquently.

Here the verb spoke is used intransitively because it does not have an object.

• He put the book on the table.

Here the verb put is used transitively because it has an object – the book.

Most verbs in English can be used both transitively and intransitively.

Name the verbs in the following sentences and state whether they are used transitively or intransitively. If the verb is transitive, name the object.

1. The sun shines brightly.

2. The boy killed the spider.

3. The explosion sank the ship.

4. The ship sank rapidly.

5. An old beggar stood at the gate.

6. Some ants fight very fiercely.

7. He spoke the truth.

8. Time heals all wounds.

9. The dog ran after me.

10. The snake bit the man.

11. He stopped abruptly.

12. The bell rang loudly.

Answers

1. Intransitive verb – shines

2. Transitive verb – killed; object – the spider

3. Transitive verb – sank; object – the ship

4. Intransitive verb – sank

5. Intransitive verb – stood

6. Intransitive verb – fight

7. Transitive verb – spoke; object – the truth

8. Transitive verb – heals; object – wounds

9. Intransitive verb – ran

10. Transitive verb – bit; object – the man

11. Intransitive verb – stopped

12. Intransitive verb – rang