Transitive verbs take objects. Intransitive verbs do not take objects. Most verbs can be used both transitively and intransitively. In fact, when a verb has an object it is said to be used transitively. When it has no object, it is said to be used intransitively.
Some verbs have different transitive and intransitive forms. One form is used only when the verb has an object. The other form is used only when the verb doesn’t have an object. Test your understanding of these verb forms with this grammar exercise. Each question is followed by two suggested answers. Choose the most appropriate one.
1. Woodcutters ……………………….. trees.
2. ………………………. still.
3. …………………………. the basket there.
4. …………………………….. early with the lark.
5. ……………………….. your hands.
6. …………………………. there.
7. ………………………… the lamp on the table.
Answers
1. Woodcutters fell trees. (Transitive; fell = cause to fall)
2. Lie still. (Intransitive)
3. Lay the basket there. (Transitive; lay = cause to lie)
4. Rise early with the lark. (Intransitive)
5. Raise your hands. (Transitive)
6. Sit there. (Intransitive)
7. Set the lamp on the table. (Transitive)
