intransitive Meaning & Definition
What Does Intransitive Mean?
As an adjective, intransitive means Not transitive: not having, or not taking, a direct object. It is also used to mean Not transitive or passing further; kept; detained. As a noun, it means An intransitive verb.
Intransitive: Key Facts
| Part of speech | adjective, noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | /ɪnˈtɹænsətɪv/ |
| Synonyms | neuter and nontransitive |
| Antonyms | transitive |
| Plural | intransitives |
Intransitive Definition (Adjective)
- Not transitive: not having, or not taking, a direct object.
The word "drink" is a transitive verb in "they drink wine", but an intransitive one in "they drink often."
- Not transitive or passing further; kept; detained.
- Of a set of dice: containing three dice A, B, and C, with the property that A rolls higher than B more than half the time, and B rolls higher than C more than half the time, but lacking the property that A rolls higher than C more than half the time. See intransitive dice and intransitive game.
Intransitive as a Noun
- An intransitive verb.
Adjective
- (grammar, of a verb) not transitive: not having, or not taking, a direct object
The word "drink" is a transitive verb in "they drink wine", but an intransitive one in "they drink often."
Synonyms of Intransitive
Intransitive synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Intransitive
Intransitive in a Sentence
The word "drink" is a transitive verb in "they drink wine", but an intransitive one in "they drink often."
Word Forms & Grammar
intransitive (not comparable)
intransitive (plural intransitives)
Origin of Intransitive
From in- + transitive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Intransitive
Is intransitive an adjective or a noun?
Intransitive is mainly used as an adjective, but it can also be used as a noun.
What is another word for intransitive?
You can replace intransitive with words such as neuter and nontransitive. See the full list of intransitive synonyms and antonyms.
What is the opposite of intransitive?
The opposite of intransitive is transitive.
What is the plural of intransitive?
The plural of intransitive is intransitives.