Did you ever use a verb that has an action, but also implies a change of state? Well, factitive verbs are here to help. Let’s explore what these verbs are and how they add depth to our sentences.
What is a Factitive Verb?
Factitive verbs are action verbs that describe the act of causing a subject to become or be something. They often signal a transformation or a change of state. In simpler terms, when someone uses a factitive verb, they’re making someone or something into something else. For example, in “They elected her president,” the verb “elected” signifies that they caused her to assume the role of president.
Examples of Factitive Verbs:
- Make: “She made him happy.” (She caused him to be happy.)
- Consider: “They considered him a friend.” (They regarded him as a friend.)
- Name: “We named the puppy Max.” (We caused the puppy to have the name Max.)
Why Are Factitive Verbs Important?
Factitive verbs are essential because they provide clarity about the relationships between subjects and objects in a sentence. They help convey a sense of change and transformation, they strengthen your writing by creating color. For example, saying “He painted the wall blue” highlights that the wall was transformed into a blue surface.
Identifying Factitive Verbs
To identify factitive verbs, find verbs that express a change of state or condition in the object. Here are a few examples:
- “The committee appointed her chairperson.” (Appointed shows the change in her role.)
- “The teacher considered the topic important.” (Considered highlights the teacher’s judgment.)
Real-Life Examples of Factitive Verbs
Factitive verbs appear frequently in everyday communication:
- In Relationships: “She made him a better person.” (Emphasizing personal growth.)
- In Business: “The company named her CEO.” (Indicating a change in position.)
- In Learning: “The coach taught them champions.” (Showing transformation into champions.)
Factitive vs. Non-Factitive Verbs
Understanding the difference between factitive and non-factitive verbs is crucial. Non-factitive verbs express actions that do not involve a state change. For example, in “She runs fast,” the verb “runs” does not indicate a transformation but merely describes the action.
Understanding factitive verbs helps us describe actions that cause a change in something or someone’s state, enhancing clarity in conveying transformation or results in communication.
