- How Is Passive Construction Identified?
- Look for parts of the verb "to be" used with another verb; however, keep in mind that the use of "to be" verbs doesn’t always mean passive voice.
- Look for the word by, which is often an indicator of passive voice.
Example: The action was performed by the children. - Find the verb and ask, "Who or what performed the action?" If the person or thing performing the action is the subject, the sentence is active.
- Evaluate If Passive Voice Should Be Used
- Does it matter who is responsible for the action?
- Is the subject/actor indicated? Should the subject/actor be indicated?
- Do you want to emphasize the object or de-emphasize the subject?
- Would your reader ask for clarification because of an issue related to the use of passive voice?
- When Passive Voice Should Be Avoided
- Active verbs create a sense of action and purpose. Active voice is more lively and dynamic and does a better job of moving your story along. Unless a situation clearly calls for a passive verb, it is suggested that you use active verbs.
very interesting =)
guilty of this on occasion
[…] Passive Voice. Myths & Facts. What is passive voice? Identify passive voice & know when to use it. Passive voice or passive construction vs. active voice. […]
[…] To learn more about passive voice, check out this article: Passive Voice: Myth vs. Fact […]
Good read and reminder!! I use passive voice sometimes!!