Transitive and Intransitive Verbs Exercise
Before doing the exercise, let’s review transitive and intransitive verbs.
Grammar Rules
Explanation:
Transitive verbs are verbs that take an object, while intransitive verbs do not take an object (arrive, swim). Some verbs can be used both transitively and intransitively.
Transitive Verbs:
- This book contains 6 chapters.
You can’t say, This book contains and you stop. There must be an object to the verb contain. In the example above, the object is 6 chapters.
Other examples of transitive verbs are: beat, contain, need, hit.
Intransitive Verbs:
- The baby is sleeping.
The verb sleep does not need an object. Other examples of intransitive verbs are: arrive, swim, sit down, stand up, snow, fly, hurt.
Some verbs can be used both transitively and intransitively. For example,
- I’m eating.
- I’m eating ice-cream.
Other examples of this group verbs are: win, drop, play, hurt, open, ring,
How can I find out if the verb needs or does not need an object?
Of course, it’s impossible to memorize all the verbs in these groups. To find out what type of verb you want to use, you need to check the dictionary. In most dictionaries, you will find abbreviations to tell you that the verb is transitive (tr.) or (intr.). If the verb can be used in both forms, the dictionary will indicate that and will give you examples on each.
Another way to find out is to use the verb in a sentence and check if your sentence makes sense or not. Or you may ask your teacher or a friend who is good at English.
