Grammatical pattern: VERB + OBJECT + OBJECT

The objects in this pattern, [VERB + OBJECT + OBJECT], represent an indirect object followed by a direct object. The meaning conveyed by an indirect object can generally be expressed in a prepositional phrase including the words “to” or “for.” (“I showed the painting to them,”  “He bought flowers for her.”) Therefore, one might say either "I showed them the painting" or "I showed the painting to them." However, some verbs that follow this two-object pattern, such as “envy,” “bet,” and “excuse,” cannot be paraphrased in this way. For further discussion of this issue, see INDIRECT OBJECT in the Grammatical Patterns Glossary.

Verbs that follow the pattern [VERB + OBJECT + OBJECT]

afford, allow, ask, bear, begrudge, bet, bid, blow, bring, buy, call, charge, choose, cook, cost, cut, deny, do, earn, envy, excuse, fetch, find, fine, forgive, get, give, grant, grudge, hand, leave, lend, lose, make, offer, order, owe, pardon, pass, pay, pitch, play, prepare, promise, put, read, refuse, reserve, save, send, show, spare, strike, take, teach, tell, throw, toss, wish

Additional examples of the pattern [VERB + OBJECT + OBJECT]

Could you lend me a dollar?

I ordered you a steak.

She blew the child a kiss.

They found him an apartment downtown.

The governor granted her a pardon.

You did him a very great favor.

She forgave him his impropriety.

He begrudged them their carefree lifestyle.

I hope you will excuse us our ignorance of this matter.