N416/179

他動詞・自動詞

他動詞: 動詞 + を + 例: 水を飲む自動詞: 動詞 + が/は + 例: 水が流れるTransitive vs intransitive usage: object vs no object

Meanings

  • Actions that take a direct object
  • Events or states that occur without a direct object

About this pattern

Explanation

This point teaches the difference between transitive verbs (他動詞) and intransitive verbs (自動詞). Transitive verbs require a direct object marked with を, showing that someone or something acts upon something else. Intransitive verbs do not take a direct object; the subject marked with が or は performs or experiences the action, often describing a state or change that occurs by itself. Understanding this distinction helps in choosing the correct verb form and particle in sentences.

Learn in context

Example sentences

私は水を飲む。

I drink water.

水が流れる。

Water flows.

彼は手紙を読む。

He reads a letter.

猫が眠っている。

The cat is sleeping.

雨が降る。

It is raining.