Intransitive

C1 16+

Pronunciation: /ɪnˈtrænzɪtɪv/

Definitions of intransitive

noun a verb that does not require a direct object to complete its meaning

Example Sentences

A1 An intransitive is a verb that does not require a direct object.

A2 I learned about intransitives in my beginner English class.

B1 The teacher explained the concept of intransitives in detail.

B2 Intransitives can be tricky to identify in sentences with complex structures.

C1 Understanding the nuances of intransitives is essential for advanced language learners.

C2 The professor's lecture on intransitives was incredibly insightful and comprehensive.

adjective describing a verb that does not require a direct object to complete its meaning

Example Sentences

A1 I am feeling intransitive today.

A2 The verb 'sleep' is intransitive because it does not require a direct object.

B1 She sings intransitive songs that don't need any accompaniment.

B2 The intransitive nature of the verb 'fall' is evident in the sentence 'The leaves fell.'

C1 The intransitive verbs in this language are particularly challenging for English speakers to grasp.

C2 His writing style is characterized by the use of intransitive verbs to convey a sense of detachment.

Examples of intransitive in a Sentence

formal The verb 'arrive' is an intransitive verb because it does not require a direct object.

informal I love intransitive verbs because they make sentences simpler.

slang Using intransitive verbs can make your writing flow better.

figurative His love for her was like an intransitive verb, not needing anything in return.

Grammatical Forms of intransitive

past tense

intransited

plural

intransitives

comparative

more intransitive

superlative

most intransitive

present tense

intransits

future tense

will intransit

perfect tense

have intransited

continuous tense

is intransiting

singular

intransitive

positive degree

intransitive

infinitive

to intransit

gerund

intransiting

participle

intransiting

Origin and Evolution of intransitive

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'intransitive' originated from Latin, specifically from the combination of the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not' or 'without' and the word 'transitivus' meaning 'passing over'.
Evolution of the word: The term 'intransitive' has maintained its meaning of a verb that does not require a direct object over time, with slight variations in usage depending on the context of grammar and linguistics.