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.
1Woodcutters ............... trees.
Wrong!
The transitive verb "fell" means to cut down a tree.
2............... still.
Wrong!
The intransitive verb "Lie" means to rest in a flat position.
3............... the basket there.
Wrong!
The transitive verb "Lay" means to put something down.
4............... early with the lark.
Wrong!
The intransitive verb "Rise" means to get up or move upward by yourself.
5............... your hands.
Wrong!
The transitive verb "Raise" means to lift something.
6............... there.
Wrong!
The intransitive verb "Sit" means to be or put yourself in a seated position.
7............... the lamp on the table.
Wrong!
The transitive verb "Set" means to put something in a particular place.
Done.
Score: 0/7
Answers
- Woodcutters fell trees.
- Lie still.
- Lay the basket there.
- Rise early with the lark.
- Raise your hands.
- Sit there.
- Set the lamp on the table.
