What Is an Intransitive Verb? | Examples, Definition & Quiz
Intransitive verbs are verbs that don’t take a direct object (a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase that receives the action of a verb). For example, “exist” is an intransitive verb, as it’s not possible to “exist” something.
In contrast, a transitive verb is one that does require a direct object. A sentence that uses the verb “examined,” for instance, would not make sense without specifying who or what receives the action of the verb (e.g., “Mary examined the manuscript”). Depending on the context in which they’re used, some verbs can function as either transitive or intransitive verbs.
Madeline sneezes often.
Renate is jogging along the path.
What is an intransitive verb?
Intransitive verbs conform to the standard rules for subject-verb agreement, as well as following the rules of conjugation for tense and mood.
Although they are never followed by an object, intransitive verbs are often followed by modifiers that describe how, when, or where something occurs, such as adverbs, adverbial clauses, or prepositional phrases.
Alexa is grinning smugly.
She doesn’t sleep as much as she would like.
Evan peered behind the curtain.
Transitive vs intransitive verbs
Transitive verbs, in contrast to intransitive verbs, always take a direct object, which specifies the recipient of the action. Typically, direct objects follow directly after the verb. Sentences that contain transitive verbs are incomplete without a direct object.
- He will cut.
- He will cut the onions.
- Mike borrowed.
- Mike borrowed my car.
- Conservators restored the damaged painting.
- The damaged painting was restored by conservators.
Ambitransitive verbs
Verbs that can be used either transitively or intransitively in different contexts are called ambitransitive verbs.
Lance is teaching (a course).
Helen read (an essay).
Transitive and intransitive verbs exercises
Test your knowledge of transitive verbs with the exercises below. Select the correct answer for each question.
