Verbs that take objects are known as transitive verbs. Verbs not followed by objects are called intransitive verbs.

Transitive verbs require an object:

• • Jack opened the door.

Intransitive verbs don't take an object:

• • Jack slept.

Some verbs can be either transitive verbs or intransitive verbs, depending on the context:

Direct Object

• • Jack visited us.

  • I hope the Senators win the next game.

No Direct Object

• • Jack visited.

  • Did we win?