What is a Transitive Verb?
A transitive verb is a type of verb that transfers action to a noun or pronoun.
Examples of Transitive Verbs
Some examples of transitive verbs would be the following:
Mr. Barnes graded the tests last night. (“graded” = transitive verb, “tests” = object receiving action of the verb)
The veteran accepted the award. (“accepted” = transitive verb, “award” = object receiving action of the verb)
A nail punctured the tire of Alicia’s car. (“punctured” = transitive verb, “tire” = object receiving action of the verb
Henry tossed the pizza in the air. (“tossed” = transitive verb, “pizza” = object receiving action of the verb)
Transitive Verbs in Context
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Our unique and memorable video footage helps solidify the understanding of challenging grammar concepts.
Watch this video to better understand transitive verbs!
Why You Should Use Transitive Verbs in Your Writing
Clarity and precision are the two primary reasons for using transitive verbs in your writing. Keep in mind that transitive verbs require a direct object (because transitive verbs transfer action to something), and by including a direct object in your sentence, you’re providing more detail and thus more clarity and precision to your writing.
Using an intransitive verb: At the party, Sheila ate.
Using a transitive verb: At the party, Sheila ate cupcakes.
Notice the difference between the two? The first sentence uses what we call an intransitive verb (a verb that does not transfer action) while the second sentence uses a transitive verb. Even though they are the same word “ate,” one is functioning as a transitive verb while the other is functioning as an intransitive verb.
Using transitive verbs in your writing provides the additional clarity and precision that readers want.
Download a Free Worksheet on Transitive Verbs!
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Do your students understand the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs?
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