Definition

Relating to a type of transitive verb that requires an object and an additional complement to complete its meaning, often indicating a change or result.

Example

The teacher used a factitive verb to show how the action affected the students' understanding.

Conversation

Did you know that some verbs are described as factitive?

Really? I haven't heard that term before.

Yeah, it means they require an objective complement to make sense.

That’s interesting! I’ll have to pay more attention to those in my writing.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Factitive → It is formed from "facere" (meaning to make or do) and the suffix "-ive" (indicating a tendency or quality). The word "factitive" refers to something that has the quality of causing or making something to happen.

Memory Tip

Think of 'making' or 'doing' ('facere') when you hear 'factitive' — it describes something that causes an action or result.

Visually Confused Words