Problem with indirect objects

Question

In the statement, "Joe is doing his homework for his English teacher," is "English teacher" an indirect object?  If not, why not?  What is the correct grammar term for the phrase "English teacher" in the above sentence?  Thank you!!!

Eddie88 · Accepted Answer

Hi, no it is a prepositional phrase. 'for his English teacher.'

Some indirect objects can be moved to the end of the sentence in the form of a prepositional phrase, just like this one.

However, this particular verb/sentence does not allow the phrase to be moved to the indirect object form.

To answer your question, no it is not an indirect object; it is the object of the preposition 'for.' So it is a noun.

I think you may hear from others, however, that this is commonly called an indirect object. From what I have read this is untrue, but it is possible that it is can be called this as this may be quite a flexible term.

Cheers.

Eddie88 · Answer

If you would like the link to where I recieved this info from, just let me know, and I'll post you the hyperlink.

Anonymous · Answer

Hi Eddie88,

Thank you very much! I really appreciate the help. Sure, the hyperlink would be helpful. Thanks again.

Eddie88 · Answer

Argh, I cannot find the page, which provides this information.

Somewhere on the hyperlink below, it discusses indirect objects.

On the page I have directed you to, there is information on direct objects, including information about it not being able to be in the form of a preposition phrase. If you have a search around this site, you may discover a discussion on indirect objects.

Here is the link:

http://www.dailygrammar.com/106to110.shtml

Ed

Problem with indirect objects

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