What is an intransitive verb?

An intransitive verb is characterized by its inability to take a direct object. This means that it does not require a recipient of the action to complete its meaning. For example, in the sentence "She runs," the verb "runs" does not have a direct object; it does not indicate what she runs. Instead, the action stands alone, which is the defining feature of intransitive verbs. This quality differentiates intransitive verbs from transitive verbs, which do require direct objects to convey complete thoughts.

The other options do not accurately describe intransitive verbs. A verb that is always in the past tense refers specifically to tense rather than the functioning of the verb in terms of direct and indirect objects. A verb that modifies another verb describes an adverb, not a verb type. Lastly, a verb that indicates a future action pertains to a verb tense rather than its ability to take a direct object.