Verbs with Two Objects

At the A2 level, you should be able to use verbs with two objects (direct and indirect). Free English grammar quiz with explanations, examples like “give,” “send,” and “show,” and practice to help you make better sentences.

Verbs with Two Objects: A Simple English Explanation

There are some verbs in English that can take two objects.

One object is direct, which means it gets the action.
The other object is indirect, which usually means the person who gets the thing.These verbs are called “give-type verbs” because “give” is the most common one.Common verbs that have two objects (A2 level):

• give
• send
• show
• buy
• make
• tell
• pass
• lend
• offer

There are two possible word orders:

1. Verb + indirect object + direct object (no “to” or “for”)
   Example:
   She gave me a book.
   → me = indirect object (person)
   → a book = direct object (thing)
2. Verb + direct object + to/for + indirect object
   Example:
   She gave a book to me.

Both sentences say the same thing! When do we say “to” and when do we say “for”?

• Use to with: give, send, show, tell, lend, offer, pass
  Example:
  He sent an email to Sarah.
  or
  He sent Sarah an email.
• Use for with: buy, make, cook, find (when you do something nice for someone)
  Example:
  Mom made a cake for Tom.
  or
  Mom made Tom a cake.

Simple examples for A2 learners:

• I bought my sister a new phone.
  = I bought a new phone for my sister.
• Can you show me your pictures?
  = Can you show your pictures to me?
• He told Anna a funny story.
  = He told a funny story to Anna.
• Pass me the salt, please.
  = Pass the salt to me, please.

Quick tip for A2 students:If the indirect object is a person, you can usually put it first (without “to” or “for”).
If you put the person second, add “to” or “for”.

1. She gave a present her friend.
   She gave her friend a present. ✓
2. I sent to John a postcard.
   I sent John a postcard. ✓
3. Dad made for me breakfast.
   Dad made me breakfast. ✓

You now know how to use verbs with two objects!
Just remember: if you put “to” or “for” first, it’s a person. If you put “thing” first, it’s a thing. If you keep practicing, you’ll sound natural very soon!

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