What Is an Indirect object?
An indirect object in a sentence tells to whom or for whom the action of the verb is done. It typically comes between the verb and the direct object, adding clarity and depth to the sentence by specifying who benefits from the action.
For example, in "She gave her friend a gift," "her friend" is the indirect object, indicating to whom the gift was given.
What is an Indirect Object?
An indirect object receives the benefit of the action done by the verb. Unlike direct objects, which receive the action directly, indirect objects answer the questions "to whom?" or "for whom?" after the verb.
Examples:
- She gave her friend a gift.
- (Indirect Object: her friend, Direct Object: a gift)
- He wrote his boss a letter.
- (Indirect Object: his boss, Direct Object: a letter)
- They sent us an invitation.
- (Indirect Object: us, Direct Object: an invitation)
An indirect object usually comes between the verb and the direct object.
Identifying Indirect Objects in Sentences
To spot indirect objects, look for the noun that benefits from the action. Typically, the structure follows: Subject + Verb + Indirect Object + Direct Object.
Examples:
- The teacher read the students a story.
- (Indirect Object: the students)
- She sent her mother a postcard.
- (Indirect Object: her mother)
- He made her a sandwich. (He made a sandwich for her.)
- (Indirect Object: her)
- She bought him a gift. (She bought a gift for him.)
- (Indirect Object: him)
A helpful tip is to look for the prepositions "to" or "for." If you can insert them without changing the meaning, you likely have an indirect object.
The Role of Indirect Objects in English Grammar
Indirect objects enhance sentence meaning by specifying who receives the action's benefit. They add clarity and depth to your sentences.
Examples:
- Without Indirect Object: She gave a gift.
- With Indirect Object: She gave her friend a gift.
- Without Indirect Object: He made a cake.
- With Indirect Object: He made his sister a cake.
Indirect objects make your communication more precise and meaningful.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Learners often confuse indirect objects with direct objects or misplace them in sentences. Remember, the indirect object always comes before the direct object when there is no preposition.
Mistake 1:
- She gave a gift to her friend. (Incorrect without context)
Correction:
- She gave her friend a gift. (Correct)
Mistake 2:
- He told a story to his children. (Incorrect without context)
Correction:
- He told his children a story. (Correct)
When using prepositions, the indirect object follows the direct object.
Correct Example:
- She gave a gift to her friend.
Practice Exercises
Try identifying and using indirect objects with these practice sentences. Each sentence will have its own breakdown for better understanding.
Exercise 1:
- Sentence: She baked her neighbor some cookies.
- Breakdown: Indirect Object: her neighbor, Direct Object: some cookies
- Sentence: He offered the guests drinks.
- Breakdown: Indirect Object: the guests, Direct Object: drinks
- Sentence: The manager gave the employees a raise.
- Breakdown: Indirect Object: the employees, Direct Object: a raise
- Sentence: The teacher assigned the students homework.
- Breakdown: Indirect Object: the students, Direct Object: homework
- Sentence: She handed him the book.
- Breakdown: Indirect Object: him, Direct Object: the book
- Sentence: He showed her the new car.
- Breakdown: Indirect Object: her, Direct Object: the new car