intransitively
1
8.2
In a way that a verb has no direct object
- adverb
- /ˌɪntrænˈzɪtɪvli/
- Specialized
:
intransitivamente
- The verb lie can function intransitively, allowing a person to say simply, 'He lies down.'
Examples
-
She prefers to use the verb sleep intransitively, meaning she doesn't need to specify what or who she sleeps with.
-
I don't think I've ever met an English person who would use the word visit intransitively.
Blog text (25) -
In English, some verbs like arrive are often used intransitively without a direct object.
Antonyms
How Transitive
transitively
1
7.5
- Specialized
1
7.5
intransitively
1
8.2
- Specialized
1
8.2
Surface Forms
intransitively positive
Morphology
intransitively = intransitive (semi-transparent) = in + transitive + ly
This is a regular adverb formed directly from the adjective 'intransitive' with the standard suffix '-ly'.
Etymology
Intransitively comes from the parts in- ('not') and transit ('to go across' or 'pass'), the same root you see in transfer and transit. So, to use a verb intransitively means the action does not 'pass' to an object, so there is no object receiving the action.