How to Identify Transitive and Intransitive Verbs in Sentences?
Transitive and intransitive verbs are important for writing correctly in both school exams and daily English. Knowing the difference helps you form sentences that make sense and clearly show what is happening and to whom. These concepts are tested in classwork, homework, and competitive exams.
| Type | Needs Object? | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Transitive Verb | Yes | She writes a letter. |
| Intransitive Verb | No | The baby cried. |
How to Identify Transitive and Intransitive Verbs
- If the verb has a direct object (answers “what?” or “whom?”), it is transitive.
- If the verb does not need an object, it is intransitive.
- Some verbs can be both, depending on usage.
Common Transitive and Intransitive Verb Examples
- Transitive: eat, read, make, build, find, write
- Intransitive: sleep, arrive, go, sneeze, sit, smile
- Dual-role (can be both): play, run, sing, open, stop
Students often find it easier to understand with side-by-side examples. Practise identifying the direct object in each sentence to grow confident.
Difference Between Transitive and Intransitive Verbs
| Transitive Verb | Intransitive Verb |
|---|---|
| Needs a direct object | No direct object needed |
| He reads a book | He sleeps at night |
| Can be used in the passive voice | Cannot form a passive voice |
Tips for Students: Spotting Verb Types in Sentences
- Look for an answer to “what?” or “whom?” after the verb.
- If you see one, the verb is transitive.
- If there is no object, the verb is intransitive.
- Try rewriting the sentence without an object—if it still makes sense, the verb can be intransitive.
At Vedantu, we focus on such simple practice techniques for quick learning and exam confidence.
When Can a Verb Be Both Transitive and Intransitive?
- Run: She runs every day. (intransitive) / She runs a business. (transitive)
- Open: The door opened slowly. (intransitive) / She opened the door. (transitive)
- Sing: He sings well. (intransitive) / He sings songs. (transitive)
Always check how the verb is used in context to decide its type.
Summary – Transitive and Intransitive Verbs
Transitive verbs need a direct object and can form passive voice sentences, while intransitive verbs stand alone and cannot. Many English verbs can be used in both ways. Mastering these types helps with clear writing and exam success. Practise exercises often for better grammar skills. Explore more English grammar topics on Vedantu.
FAQs on Transitive and Intransitive Verbs Exercises: Definitions, Examples, Practice
1. What is the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs?
Transitive verbs need a direct object to complete their meaning (e.g., "She reads a book"). The object receives the action. Intransitive verbs don't need a direct object (e.g., "The baby sleeps"). The action is complete without an object receiving it.
2. What are some examples of transitive verbs?
Transitive verbs express an action that affects a direct object. Here are some examples: read, write, eat, build, play, throw, catch, make, buy, sell, give, take, see, hear, love, hate. Notice how each of these verbs needs an object to complete the sense: She reads books. They build houses. He throws the ball.
3. What are some examples of intransitive verbs?
Intransitive verbs show an action or state of being that doesn't directly affect an object. Examples include: sleep, run, walk, laugh, cry, jump, sit, stand, arrive, go, come, exist, seem, appear. These verbs make complete sense without an object: The dog runs. The baby cries. She sleeps soundly.
4. How can I identify a transitive verb in a sentence?
Ask "who?" or "what?" after the verb. If you get an answer that's the direct object, it's a transitive verb. For example: "He kicked the ball." "What did he kick?" Answer: "The ball." Therefore, "kicked" is transitive.
5. How can I identify an intransitive verb in a sentence?
If the verb doesn't take a direct object—you can't ask "who?" or "what?" after it and get a meaningful answer—it's likely an intransitive verb. For example, in "The birds sang," you can't ask, "Sang what?" The meaning is complete without an object.
6. Can a verb be both transitive and intransitive?
Yes! Many verbs can function as both transitive and intransitive, depending on how they are used. For example: "He runs a marathon" (transitive - runs what? a marathon) vs. "He runs every day" (intransitive - runs where? implied, not stated).
7. What are some common verbs that can be both transitive and intransitive?
Some verbs that often act as both include: run, walk, sing, play, work, write, read, stop, start. The context of the sentence determines whether an object is needed.
8. What is a direct object in a sentence?
A direct object receives the action of the verb. It answers the questions "who?" or "what?" after a transitive verb. In "She threw the ball," "ball" is the direct object because it's what she threw.
9. Why is understanding transitive and intransitive verbs important?
Understanding verb transitivity is crucial for correct sentence construction and clear communication. It helps avoid grammatical errors and ensures your writing and speech are accurate and effective.
10. Are there any common mistakes students make with transitive and intransitive verbs?
A common mistake is incorrectly using a transitive verb without a direct object, or vice versa. Carefully analyze the verb's action and whether an object is required to complete its meaning.
11. Where can I find more practice exercises on transitive and intransitive verbs?
Vedantu offers various worksheets and practice materials online to help you master the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs. Look for additional resources on our website.
