What is the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs

In each sentence, there is an error in the use of verbs. He described about the situation of those who lack English language skills. In the first four sentences, the verbs discuss, tell, describe, and request are followed by prepositions: about, to, about, and for respectively and thus make the sentences incorrect.

The highlighted words are not required in the sentences. Why do learners make such mistakes? The reason is that they do not know the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs.

Here is an easy-to-understand explanation. The object refers to the person or thing affected by the actions of the verb. Consider these examples:. John discussed a plan with Mary. Mary okayed the plan. John and Mary admire each other. In the sentences above, meet, discuss, okay and admire are transitive verbs because they are followed by the objects Mary, a plan, the plan and each other respectively. We need to maintain product quality. She loves animals. Some transitive verbs can be used with a direct object and an indirect object : Liz brought her a glass of water.

Here is a short list of some common verbs that can take a direct and indirect object: Verb Example give Pat gave me a book for my birthday. Intransitive verbs An intransitive verb does not have an object.

In the following sentences, cry, work , laugh , and talk are intransitive verbs: The baby was crying. I work for a large firm in Paris. They laughed uncontrollably. We talked for hours.

Transitive and intransitive verbs Many verbs can be transitive or intransitive. For example: The choir sang carols. The trees were moving in the breeze. Notice that the first sentence has two words following the verb hit. These two facts lead us to a discussion on transitive and intransitive verbs. Transitive verbs are action verbs that have an object to receive that action.

In the first sentence above, the direct object ball received the action of the verb hit. Below are some examples of transitive verbs. All of the verbs in the above sentences are transitive because an object is receiving the action of the verb.

No, in this case the verb sang is an intransitive verb. Intransitive verbs are action verbs but unlike transitive verbs, they do not have an object receiving the action.