Final answer:
The phrase 'joining the team' functions as a transitive verb because it typically has a direct object that receives the action. Transitive verbs require at least a subject and a direct object, and can also include an indirect object. In contrast, intransitive verbs do not require a direct object and are often accompanied by adverbial information only.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you encounter the phrase joining the team, it can function as a transitive verb because it typically requires an object to receive the action of joining. For instance, in the sentence 'She is joining the team,' 'team' functions as the direct object of the verb 'joining.' All transitive verbs have a subject and take one or more complements, and the direct object is a necessary component that receives the action of the verb. Transitive verbs can also have an indirect object, which is the recipient of the direct object. An example of this could be, 'The coach offered her a position when she considered joining the team.' Here, 'her' is the indirect object and 'position' is the direct object.
In contrast, an intransitive verb has no complement; it does not require a direct object. It is complete with only a subject and often accompanied by adverbial information. For example, 'She laughs' has no direct object, and 'laughs' is an intransitive verb.