Identify transitive and intransitive verbs

Lesson Intro: Identify Transitive and Intransitive Verbs

Today we’re going to learn the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs. Both are action verbs, but the key question is:

Does the action go to something?

Transitive Verbs

A transitive verb has a direct object—that means the action is done to someone or something.

Ask: Verb what? or Verb whom?

Examples:

• She kicked the ball.
  (kicked what? → the ball)

• He read the book.
  (read what? → the book)

➡️ If you can answer “what/whom” after the verb, it’s transitive.

Intransitive Verbs

An intransitive verb does not have a direct object. The action is complete by itself.

Examples:

• The baby cried. (cried what? ❌ doesn’t make sense)

• We laughed. (laughed what? ❌)

➡️ If there’s no direct object, it’s intransitive.

Important Note

A verb can be both, depending on the sentence!

• I eat. (intransitive)

• I eat pizza. (transitive)

Quick Practice (Find if it’s Transitive or Intransitive)

1. The dog barked.

2. She painted a picture.

3. They slept early.

4. He carried the boxes.

5. The bird flew away.

Answers:

1. Intransitive

2. Transitive

3. Intransitive

4. Transitive

5. Intransitive