Passive voice is a grammatical construction in which the subject of a sentence is the recipient of the action rather than the one performing it. This can sometimes make sentences sound more formal or indirect. Understanding how to use passive voice correctly is important for effective communication in English.
While active voice is generally preferred for its clarity and directness, there are situations where passive voice is more appropriate. It can be used to emphasize the action rather than the doer, to avoid assigning blame or responsibility, or when the doer of the action is unknown or irrelevant.
Examples of Passive Voice in English
1. The cake was baked by Mary. (Passive) – Mary baked the cake. (Active)
2. The report will be submitted by the end of the day. (Passive) – I will submit the report by the end of the day. (Active)
3. The car was stolen last night. (Passive) – Someone stole the car last night. (Active)
4. The movie was watched by millions of people. (Passive) – Millions of people watched the movie. (Active)
5. The decision has been made by the board. (Passive) – The board has made the decision. (Active)
Using passive voice can help vary sentence structure and add variety to your writing. However, it is important to use it judiciously and not overuse it, as it can make sentences harder to read and understand. Remember that active voice is generally more direct and engaging for readers.
When writing in passive voice, be sure to include the appropriate form of the verb “to be” along with the past participle of the main verb. This helps signal to the reader that the sentence is in passive voice. Practice using both active and passive voice in your writing to become more comfortable with when and how to use each construction effectively.
In conclusion, understanding passive voice in English is essential for clear and effective communication. By recognizing when to use passive voice and practicing with examples, you can improve your writing skills and create more dynamic and engaging sentences. Remember to consider the context and purpose of your writing when deciding whether to use active or passive voice.