Many verbs can be followed by two objects – an indirect object and a direct object. The indirect object usually refers to a person and the direct object usually refers to a thing. Two structures are possible.
- She gave me (indirect object) a nice gift (direct object).
- She gave a nice gift (direct object) to me (indirect object).
Both these structures can be made passive.
- I was given a nice gift (by her). (Indirect object becomes subject.)
- A nice gift was given to me (by her). (Direct object becomes subject.)
Another example is given below.
- They lent me (indirect object) ten thousands pounds (direct object).
- They lent ten thousand pounds to me.
- I was lent ten thousand pounds. (passive)
- Ten thousand pounds were lent to me. (passive)
Common verbs that are followed by two objects include give, send, show, lend, pay, promise, refuse, tell and offer.
