Using transitive and intransitive verbs
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What is an intransitive verb? | page 2 of 5 |
A definition of intransitive verbs 
An intransitive verb can be defined as any verb which involves only the subject, and
which cannot be followed by a direct object 
. Consider the following sentence:
Humpty Dumpty fell off the wall. (Adapted Nursery Rhyme)
In this example, Humpty Dumpty is the subject of the verb, and this verb does not require an object for a complete meaning to be conveyed. Note that it would not be possible to say:
Humpty Dumpty's enemies fell him.
although it would be possible to say:
Humpty Dumpty's enemies pushed him, and he fell.
Note also that intransitive verbs cannot be used in the passive. This is because they
lack an object, and so there is nothing to act as the subject of the passive voice
sentence .
In summary then, an intransitive verb is used to represent an action in which the
subject is the only participant .
Teaching implications
Students sometimes have problems deciding whether a verb is transitive or intransitive. A useful test is the "full-stop" test. Choose a simple subject such as He and put the verb into the past tense, then put a full-stop. If your sentence doesn't make sense, then the verb is transitive and needs to be followed by a direct object:
Roger hit.
However, if you have made a meaningful sentence then the verb is intransitive:
Jenny smiled.
Note that verbs such as smile are normally intransitive, but they can be used transitively when used with a special type of direct object which is directly related to the verb:
Jenny smiled her usual, happy smile.
For further information about verbs which behave in this way, see 
Using transitive and intransitive verbs: A special type of direct
object.
A definition of intransitive verbs
