Transitive Verb: Definition, Examples & Rules | English Grammar
Last Updated: 01 Jul, 2025
Welcome! In this lesson, you'll learn everything you need to know about Transitive Verbs in English grammar. We'll cover what they are, why they matter, how to use them, and how to avoid common mistakes. You'll also find real-life examples, a quick quiz, and pro tips to help you master this essential grammar topic.
What is a Transitive Verb?
Transitive Verb Definition: A Transitive Verb is a verb that requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The action of the verb is transferred to the object, making the sentence incomplete without the object.
Why are Transitive Verbs Important? They are essential for creating complete sentences that show actions being performed on objects. Transitive verbs help us express what is being done to what or whom.
Function in Grammar
Transitive verbs transfer their action to a direct object. The object receives the action and answers the questions "what?" or "whom?" after the verb. For example:
- She eats an apple. (What does she eat? An apple)
- He writes a letter. (What does he write? A letter)
Transitive Verb vs Intransitive Verb: Transitive verbs require objects (I eat an apple), while intransitive verbs don't take objects (I sleep).
Types of Transitive Verbs
Type | Description | Examples |
---|---|---|
Monotransitive | Take one direct object | eat, write, read, buy |
Ditransitive | Take two objects (direct + indirect) | give, send, tell, show |
Complex Transitive | Take object + object complement | make, consider, find, call |
Transitive verbs can be categorized by how many objects they take and what type.
📌 Transitive Verb Challenge!
Can you identify which words are transitive verbs in these sentences?
- She eats an apple.
- He writes a letter.
- They build a house.
Show Answers
- eats (what? an apple)
- writes (what? a letter)
- build (what? a house)
Examples of Transitive Verbs in Sentences
- She eats an apple every morning.
- He writes a letter to his friend.
- They build a new house.
- I read a book before bed.
- She buys groceries at the store.
- He teaches English to students.
- We watch movies on weekends.
- She creates beautiful artwork.
- He sends emails to his colleagues.
- They cook dinner for their family.
- I love chocolate ice cream.
- She opens the door for visitors.
- He closes the window at night.
- We study grammar rules.
- They play football in the park.
Notice how each transitive verb has a direct object that receives the action.
Transitive vs Intransitive Verbs
Key Differences
Aspect | Transitive Verb | Intransitive Verb |
---|---|---|
Object Requirement | Requires direct object | No direct object |
Action Transfer | Action transfers to object | Action is self-contained |
Question Test | What/Whom? | No object question |
Example | I eat an apple. | I sleep. |
Transitive verbs require objects, while intransitive verbs don't.
Special Rules and Notes
- Direct Object: The direct object receives the action and answers "what?" or "whom?" after the verb.
- Indirect Object: Some transitive verbs can take both direct and indirect objects (I give you a book).
- Object Complements: Some transitive verbs take an object complement (I consider him intelligent).
- Passive Voice: Transitive verbs can be used in passive voice (The apple is eaten by me).
- Both Types: Many verbs can be both transitive and intransitive depending on usage.
- Prepositional Phrases: Transitive verbs can be followed by prepositional phrases (I put the book on the table).
- Clause Objects: Transitive verbs can take clause objects (I know that he is coming).
- Gerund Objects: Transitive verbs can take gerund objects (I enjoy reading books).
Quick Quiz: Spot the Transitive Verb!
Which words are transitive verbs in these sentences?
- She eats an apple every morning.
- He writes a letter to his friend.
- They build a new house.
- I read a book before bed.
- She buys groceries at the store.
- He teaches English to students.
- We watch movies on weekends.
- She creates beautiful artwork.
Answers: eats, writes, build, read, buys, teaches, watch, creates
🔧 Sentence Correction Challenge!
Can you spot and fix the mistakes in these sentences?
- She eats. (Incomplete - missing object)
- He writes. (Incomplete - missing object)
- They build. (Incomplete - missing object)
Show Corrected Sentences
- She eats an apple. (Add direct object)
- He writes a letter. (Add direct object)
- They build a house. (Add direct object)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a transitive verb?
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The action of the verb is transferred to the object.
How do you identify a transitive verb?
Ask "what?" or "whom?" after the verb. If you can answer this question, the verb is transitive.
Can a verb be both transitive and intransitive?
Yes, many verbs can be both, depending on how they are used in a sentence.
What are some common transitive verbs?
Examples include: eat, write, read, buy, give, send, tell, show.
Can transitive verbs be used in passive voice?
Yes, transitive verbs can be used in passive voice because they have a direct object.
Conclusion
Understanding transitive verbs is crucial for creating complete and meaningful sentences in English. These verbs require direct objects to complete their meaning and show actions being performed on specific things or people. Always remember that transitive verbs transfer their action to an object, and you can identify them by asking "what?" or "whom?" after the verb. Pay attention to the different types of transitive verbs and how they can take various forms of objects. Practice identifying and using them in your writing and speech. The more you practice, the more naturally you'll be able to create complete sentences with proper object relationships!