Check your comprehension. Answer all the questions.
Objects (Direct and Indirect) in English
In English grammar, objects are an essential part of sentences as they receive the action of the verb. Objects can be direct or indirect. Understanding how to identify and use them correctly is crucial for constructing clear and accurate sentences.
Direct Objects
A direct object is a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase that receives the action of a verb directly. It answers the questions “what?” or “whom?”
Key Point
The direct object directly receives the action of the verb in a sentence.
Example:
She bought a car.
In this sentence, “car” is the direct object because it receives the action of the verb “bought.”
Indirect Objects
An indirect object is a noun, pronoun, or noun phrase that indirectly receives the action of a verb. It typically answers the questions “to whom?” or “for whom?” the action is done. An indirect object is usually placed before the direct object.
Key Point
The indirect object is the recipient of the direct object in the sentence.
Example:
She gave her friend a gift.
In this sentence, “friend” is the indirect object and “gift” is the direct object. The friend receives the gift.
Identifying Direct and Indirect Objects
To identify direct and indirect objects, follow these steps:
- Find the verb in the sentence.
- Ask “what?” or “whom?” after the verb to find the direct object.
- Ask “to whom?” or “for whom?” to find the indirect object.
Example:
He gave his sister a book.
Verb: gave
Direct Object: book (What did he give?)
Indirect Object: sister (To whom did he give the book?)
Examples of Sentences with Direct and Indirect Objects
Example 1:
They sent us a postcard.
Direct Object: postcard
Indirect Object: us
Example 2:
She told him a story.
Direct Object: story
Indirect Object: him
Example 3:
We bought our parents a gift.
Direct Object: gift
Indirect Object: parents
Exercises
Try identifying the direct and indirect objects in the following sentences:
- She made her brother a cake.
- He sent his friend a message.
- They offered the students free tickets.
Answers:
1. Direct Object: cake, Indirect Object: brother
2. Direct Object: message, Indirect Object: friend
3. Direct Object: free tickets, Indirect Object: students