This document discusses the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs. A transitive verb takes a direct object, answering the question "what?" or "whom?" after the verb. An intransitive verb does not take a direct object. Some verbs can be both transitive and intransitive depending on how they are used in a sentence. Examples are provided to illustrate transitive verbs like "wrote" and "shook" as well as intransitive verbs like "applauded" and "shook." The document concludes by noting verbs are complex but essential to sentences and advises keeping writing simple.

1. Transitive and
Intransitive Verbs

2. Key terms for transitive/intransitive verbs
 Direct
objects are words that receive the
action of the verb.
 Some verbs have direct objects and
others do not.
 If the verb has a direct object, it is
transitive.
 If it does not, it is intransitive.

3. Does it have a direct object?
 To
determine whether a verb has a direct
object,
 Ask:
 Some
whom or what after it
verbs will be both transitive and
intransitive. It depends on how the verb is
used.

4. Check out this example:
 He
wrote the manuscript.
 The
verb is wrote.
 Ask yourself: He wrote (what)
 Answer: The manuscript is the direct object.
 Therefore
wrote is a transitive verb.

5. Another example:
 The
dog shook his tail.
 The
verb is shook.
 Ask yourself: The dog shook (what)
 Answer: Tail is the direct object.
 Therefore
shook is a transitive verb.

6. Examples of intransitive verbs
 Mrs.
Carper applauded.
 The
verb is applauded.
 Ask yourself: Applauded (whom or what?)
 Answer: There is no word to receive the action
of the verb applauded and no direct object.
 Therefore
applauded is an intransitive verb.

7.  The
dog shook.
 The
verb is shook.
 Ask yourself: Shook (whom or what?)
 Answer: There is no word to receive the action
of the verb shook and no direct object.
 Therefore
shook is an intransitive verb.

8. The wild, wild world of verbs
 Verbs
are the most confusing part of
speech.
 However, every sentence must have a
verb to complete the meaning of the
subject.
 Do not become overwhelmed by all the
types of verbs. Write simply and clearly
are my words of advice to you.