Trying to think of some ways to clarify your paper, or to get into the nitty gritty of grammar? This is the perfect post for you! Let’s start with this: try to identifying the direct and indirect objects in your sentence. Not sure what I’m talking about? Read on!
Well, a direct object follows the transitive verb. But what’s a transitive verb?
A transitive verb is something you do followed by who or what it is being done to.
An intransitive verb is a verb not proceeded by direct object–something you do but it is not mentioned who or what it is being done to.
Example: Jordan returned the car. Transitive (T) verb: returned//Direct object (DO) = the car
Serra returned before supper. Intransitive (I): returned, but with no direct object.
Now you try: Identify the underlined verb as transitive (T) or intransitive (I). If transitive identify the direct object.
- Smokey the bear hates forest fires.
- Little Jennifer found the missing key.
- Wilhelmina collects tropical fish.
- The Hernandez family eats outdoors in the summer.
- The irate customer spoke angrily.
- Answers: 1(T) direct object = “forest fires” , 2 (T) direct object = “key”, 3 (T) direct object = “fish”, 4 (I) What do they eat while outdoors?, 5 (I) Who did he speak to?
Now, let’s try the indirect-object inversion technique.
- Neal sent the package to Krystal.
- Transitive verb = sent
- Direct object = the package
- Indirect Object= Krystal
- Now switch the two and you’ll get a new sentence like, Neal sent Krystal the package.
- Note: This technique does not work if there is no indirect object. For example, you cannot rearrange the sentence: She bought a watch for forty dollars. You could not say, though: She bought forty dollars a watch.
Now, you try. Rewrite the following sentences, if you can. First, identify the indirect object. Remember: If there is no indirect object, then it cannot be rewritten!
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- Mrs. Smith gave a new dress to her daughter.
- The commissioner sent it to the new champion.
- Ned handed a hundred dollars to his bookie.
- Mr. Jones bought it for his grandson.
Answers: 1) Mrs. Smith gave her daughter a new dress. 2) No (INDO). 3) Ned handed his bookie a hundred dollars. 4) No (INDO)
