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This handout will explain the difference between active and passive voice in writing. It gives examples of both, and shows how to turn a passive sentence into an active one. Also, it explains how to decide when to choose passive voice instead of active.
Certain kinds of writing are best suited for the active voice, while the passive voice is most appropriate for other kinds of writing. Understanding how, when, and why to use each is key to being an effective writer and speaker.
We break down the difference between passive and active voice with examples of each. Then learn which one is preferred by media and why it's so useful when writing. When a sentence is in the active voice, the subject of the sentence is the one doing the action expressed by the verb.
Although active voice is incredibly useful, the passive voice is occasionally the better choice. For instance, you may go passive if the actor of a sentence is unknown or irrelevant, like in the sentence, "The amendments will be approved after a discussion".
In general, active voice is used to focus attention on the subject of the sentence, while passive voice puts more emphasis on the object. Active voice is considered more direct and engaging, making it a popular choice among writers. However, there are also times when passive voice is preferable.
Guide to Active vs. Passive Voice With Examples. Written by MasterClass. Last updated: Sep 29, 2021 • 3 min read. It’s an admonition that’s been uttered by everyone from high school English teachers to newspaper editors to renowned writing instructors: use the active voice over the passive voice.
If you write a passive sentence, consider carefully whether leading with the actor would strengthen your point. This is also relevant when discussing previous research: active constructions that specify who is responsible for findings can make your writing more credible and convincing.
In general, the active voice makes your writing stronger, more direct, and, you guessed it, more active. The subject is something, or it does the action of the verb in the sentence. With the passive voice, the subject is acted upon by some other performer of the verb.
This handout will explain the difference between active and passive voice in writing. It gives examples of both, and shows how to turn a passive sentence into an active one. Also, it explains how to decide when to choose passive voice instead of active.
In a sentence, main verbs can be in active or passive voice. A main verb is active when the subject of the sentence is the doer (or the agent) of the action. A main verb is passive when the subject of the sentence is the receiver of the action.