Verbs and verb phrases eleventhly function as indirect objects. An indirect object is a word, phrase, or clause that follows a ditransitive verb and answers the question "to or for whom or what" the action of the verb is performed. The following italicized verbs are examples of indirect objects:
•The young couple is giving having another baby serious consideration.
•Her roommate will give listening to jazz a try.
•He had given painting the living room some thought.
Only verbs in the form of present participles can perform the nominal function of indirect object. Verbs rarely function as indirect objects.