What is the difference between a transitive and intransitive verb?

Verbs are classed as either transitive or intransitive depending on whether they need a direct object to form a complete thought.

  • Transitive verbs require a direct object that indicates the person or thing acted upon by the verb (e.g., “I like coffee”).
  • Intransitive verbs do not require a direct object (e.g., “Tori stands”).