Transitive

usgb/ˈtrænzətɪv/
adjective

In grammar, a transitive verb is one that only makes sense if it exerts its action on an object.

In the sentence 'She loves cats', 'loves' is a transitive verb because it is acting on the object 'cats'.
Visual representation of "transitive" - In grammar, a transitive verb is one that only makes sense if it exerts its action on an object.

Often appears as...

  • transitive verb
  • transitive action

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "transitive"
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Context Clues

Look for objects receiving the action to identify transitive verbs in sentences.

Illustration for Context Clues
He kicked the ball.
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Object Omission

A sentence may imply an object, making a transitive verb seem intransitive. Context matters.

Illustration for Object Omission
She reads (books).
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Passive Voice

Transitive verbs can be used in passive voice where the object comes before the verb.

Illustration for Passive Voice
Cats are loved by her.
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ambiguousclearcommunicableexplicitintelligiblelucidunderstandunequivocal
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