Definition

Intransitive verbs do not require an object to complete the action, while transitive verbs do. 

For example, the verb "run" is intransitive and does not require an object. However, the verb "eat" is transitive and does require an object (e.g., "I ate the apple.").

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Examples of transitive verbs

• I drank the coffee.
• She read the book.
• Jane caught the ball.
• The train arrived on time.

As you can see, each of these verbs has an object. The object is the thing that the verb is acting upon.

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Examples of intransitive verbs

Now, here are some examples of intransitive verbs:

• They laughed.
• He cried.
• I slept.
• The train arrived.

These verbs do not take an object. One cannot “laugh something” or “cry something.” One can only “laugh” or “cry.”

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Tip

• Remember, if a verb takes an object, it’s transitive. If it doesn’t take an object, it’s intransitive.
• Some transitive verbs are "to give," "to take," and "to show."
• Some intransitive verbs are "to sit," "to stand," and "to sleep."

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Conclusion

Intransitive verbs do not require an object to make a sentence sensible whereas transitive verbs do.

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