Verbs Transitive/Intransitive

Notes An action verb that is followed by a direct object is called a transitive verb. An action verb that is not followed by a direct object is called an intransitive verb. Some verbs can be either transitive or intransitive, depending on the words that follow them. Remember that a direct object answers the question what? Or whom?

Notes Continued The polar bears eat slowly. The word slowly tells how the bears eat. It does not answer the question what? Or whom? In this sentence, the action verb eat is intransitive because is it not followed by a direct object.

Notes Continued The polar bears eat fish. The word fish answers the question what? In this sentence, the action verb eat is transitive because it is followed by the direct object fish.

Practice The director remembered this fine old theater from past performances. He loved its air of history and elegance. Male actors perform all the female roles. Many people bought tickets to the new play. He praised the actors for their performances.