Verbs with two objects
Definition
A ditransitive verb can be used with two objects: an indirect object, usually the recipient or beneficiary, and a direct object, usually the thing transferred, communicated, or provided.
Examples
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Maya gave Leo the keys.
Leo is the indirect object, and the keys is the direct object.
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The company offered Maya a new position.
Maya receives the offer, while a new position is the thing offered.
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Leo sent us the documents.
Us is the recipient and the documents is the transferred item.
Double-object vs. prepositional pattern
Maya gave Leo the keys.
The recipient comes before the thing.
Maya gave the keys to Leo.
The thing comes first, and the recipient follows to.
Many transfer verbs allow both patterns, but the choice affects emphasis and is not available with every verb.
Not every verb allows both object orders
Verbs such as give, send, show, and offer commonly allow both patterns. Others require a preposition or use only one structure. Pronouns and information flow can also influence the preferred order.
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Maya explained the problem to Leo.
Explain does not normally allow explained Leo the problem.
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Please send it to me.
With two pronouns, the prepositional pattern is usually clearer and more natural.
Common mistakes
Maya explained Leo the problem.
Maya explained the problem to Leo.
Explain requires the person to be introduced with to.
Leo gave to Maya the keys.
Leo gave Maya the keys.
In the double-object pattern, do not use to before the indirect object.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence contains an indirect object followed by a direct object?
Leo is the indirect object and the file is the direct object.Which alternative to Maya gave Leo the keys is correct?
The prepositional pattern is verb + thing + to + recipient.Which sentence correctly uses explain?
Explain takes the thing directly and introduces the person with to.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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