transitively

Meanings

1. 1adverbnot comparabletechnical

   In grammar, in a way that takes a direct object, as a verb does when it acts on something.

   Grammar: Often modifies 'used' or 'function': the verb is used transitively.

   Patterns

   • used transitively
   • function transitively

   In 'She grows tomatoes', the verb is used transitively.

   Some verbs, like 'melt', can work transitively or intransitively.

   The dictionary marks how each verb behaves transitively.

2. 2adverbnot comparablemathematicstechnical

   In logic and mathematics, by a relation that carries over a chain, so that if A relates to B and B to C, then A relates to C.

   Grammar: Describes how a relation holds: is related transitively.

   Patterns

   • hold transitively
   • related transitively

   Equality works transitively: if an equals b and b equals c, then an equals c.

   The proof shows the order extends transitively across the whole set.

   Trust does not always pass transitively from one person to another.

Common combinations

used transitively

The verb 'run' can be used transitively, as in 'run a business'.

function transitively

Many English verbs function transitively and intransitively.

hold transitively

The relation holds transitively for every triple.

behave transitively

Check whether the verb behaves transitively in this sentence.

Synonyms and how they differ

with an object

With an object is a plain, everyday way to say the grammar sense, while transitively is the formal term used in grammar guides.

Opposites

Word family

transitive adjective

describing a verb that takes an object, or a relation that carries across a chain

transitivity noun

the quality of being transitive

intransitive adjective

describing a verb with no direct object

intransitively adverb

without taking an object

Commonly confused: transitively or transitionally?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “transitively”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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