Indirect Objects in English: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you tired of feeling confused about indirect objects in English?

Do you struggle to identify them in sentences or use them correctly in your writing?

You’re not alone!

Indirect objects can be tricky, but with this comprehensive guide, you’ll become a master of indirect objects in no time.

What are Indirect Objects?

In English grammar, an indirect object is a noun or pronoun that receives the direct object of a verb.

It’s the recipient of the action described by the verb.

Think of it like a game of catch — the direct object is the ball, and the indirect object is the person catching it.

Direct Objects vs. Indirect Objects: What’s the Difference?

To understand indirect objects, you need to know the difference between direct and indirect objects.

A direct object is a noun or pronoun that receives the action of the verb.

For example:

• “She threw the ball.” (The ball is the direct object.)
• “He gave the book to his friend.” (The book is the direct object, and his friend is the indirect object.)

In the second example, “his friend” is the indirect object because it receives the direct object (the book). The verb “gave” is acting on the book, and the book is being given to his friend.

How to Identify Indirect Objects in Sentences

Identifying indirect objects can be challenging, but there are a few tricks to help you:

1. Look for the verb: Find the verb in the sentence and ask yourself, “What is the verb acting on?”
2. Find the direct object: Identify the direct object of the verb. This will help you determine if there’s an indirect object.
3. Check for a recipient: Ask yourself, “Is there a recipient of the direct object?” If the answer is yes, that’s your indirect object.

Let’s practice with an example:

“The teacher gave the students a homework assignment.”

1. The verb is “gave.”
2. The direct object is “a homework assignment.”
3. The recipient of the direct object is “the students.” Therefore, “the students” is the indirect object.

Types of Indirect Objects

There are two types of indirect objects: noun indirect objects and pronoun indirect objects.

1. Noun Indirect Objects: A noun indirect object is a noun that receives the direct object of a verb. For example:
   • “The manager gave the employees a raise.” (The employees is a noun indirect object.)
2. Pronoun Indirect Objects: A pronoun indirect object is a pronoun that receives the direct object of a verb. For example:
   • “She gave him a gift.” (Him is a pronoun indirect object.)

Using Indirect Objects with Gerund Phrases

A gerund phrase is a phrase that starts with a gerund (a verb ending in -ing) and functions as a noun.

You can use indirect objects with gerund phrases to add more complexity to your sentences.

For example:

• “The teacher gave the students writing a short story as homework.” (The students is the indirect object, and writing a short story is the gerund phrase.)

Using Indirect Objects with Relative Pronouns

A relative pronoun is a pronoun that introduces a dependent clause.

You can use indirect objects with relative pronouns to create more complex sentences.

For example:

• “The book, which the author gave the editor, was a bestseller.” (The editor is the indirect object, and which is the relative pronoun.)

Common Verbs that Use Indirect Objects

Some verbs are more likely to use indirect objects than others.

Here are some common verbs that often use indirect objects:

• Give
• Show
• Tell
• Offer
• Teach
• Sell
• Buy

For example:

• “The salesperson showed the customer the new smartphone.” (The customer is the indirect object.)
• “The teacher taught the students a new language.” (The students is the indirect object.)

Using Indirect Objects with Linking Verbs

A linking verb is a verb that connects the subject of a sentence to additional information. You can use indirect objects with linking verbs to create more complex sentences.

For example:

• “The award was given to the winner.” (The winner is the indirect object, and was given is the linking verb.)

Using Indirect Objects with Complements

A complement is a word or phrase that completes the meaning of a linking verb. You can use indirect objects with complements to add more complexity to your sentences.

For example:

• “The manager made the employees a promise.” (The employees is the indirect object, and a promise is the complement.)

Indirect Objects in Different Tenses

Indirect objects can be used in different tenses, including the present, past, and future.

Here are some examples:

• Present tense: “She gives the students homework every night.” (The students is the indirect object.)
• Past tense: “He gave the book to his friend last week.” (His friend is the indirect object.)
• Future tense: “The teacher will give the students a test next week.” (The students is the indirect object.)

Indirect Objects in Different Sentence Structures

Indirect objects can be used in different sentence structures, including simple, compound, and complex sentences.

Here are some examples:

• Simple sentence: “The manager gave the employees a raise.” (The employees is the indirect object.)
• Compound sentence: “The teacher gave the students homework, and the students completed it.” (The students is the indirect object.)
• Complex sentence: “The book, which the author gave the editor, was a bestseller.” (The editor is the indirect object.)

Wrapping it up

Indirect objects can be tricky, but with practice and patience, you can master them. Remember to identify the verb, direct object, and recipient of the direct object to find the indirect object. Don’t be afraid to use indirect objects with gerund phrases, relative pronouns, and linking verbs to create more complex sentences.

PS: Practice makes perfect! Try identifying indirect objects in your favorite books, articles, or even social media posts. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with using indirect objects in your writing.