When writing, it’s important to understand the difference between passive and active voice. Passive voice occurs when the subject of the sentence is acted upon by the verb, while active voice occurs when the subject performs the action. Both have their uses, but it’s essential to know when to use each one effectively.
Active voice is often preferred in writing because it is more direct and concise. It typically makes sentences clearer and more engaging for the reader. On the other hand, passive voice can be useful in certain situations, such as when the focus is on the action rather than the doer.
Examples of Passive and Active Voice:
1. Passive: The cake was baked by Mary. (The subject, “cake,” is being acted upon by the verb “baked.”)
Active: Mary baked the cake. (The subject, “Mary,” is performing the action “baked.”)
2. Passive: The report will be submitted by the team tomorrow. (The subject, “report,” is being acted upon by the verb “submitted.”)
Active: The team will submit the report tomorrow. (The subject, “team,” is performing the action “submit.”)
3. Passive: The movie was watched by millions of people last weekend. (The subject, “movie,” is being acted upon by the verb “watched.”)
Active: Millions of people watched the movie last weekend. (The subject, “people,” is performing the action “watched.”)
4. Passive: The new software has been installed on all computers in the office. (The subject, “software,” is being acted upon by the verb “installed.”)
Active: IT has installed the new software on all computers in the office. (The subject, “IT,” is performing the action “installed.”)
5. Passive: The decision was made by the committee yesterday. (The subject, “decision,” is being acted upon by the verb “made.”)
Active: The committee made the decision yesterday. (The subject, “committee,” is performing the action “made.”)
It’s important to choose the appropriate voice based on the context and emphasis of your writing. Active voice is generally preferred for clarity and directness, while passive voice can be used when the focus is on the action itself. By understanding the differences between the two, you can enhance the effectiveness of your writing.