Using Active Verbs

Passive vs. Active Voice

Active and Passive Voice

Active Voice

• A verb is said to be in the active voice when it expresses an action performed by its subject.

S O

• Active: The author provides helpful diagrams.

Passive Voice

• A verb is in the passive voice when the action it expresses is performed upon its subject.

S prep. phrase

• Passive: Helpful diagrams are provided (by the author. )

Be conscious of your verb choices.

• The passive voice puts the emphasis on the person or thing receiving the action rather than upon the one performing it.

• It is often used in situations in which the speaker does not know or does not wish to say who performed the action.

• Although useful for these purposes, the passive construction can easily be overused.

• Avoid a succession of passive sentences, which sound weak and awkward.

Classifying Sentences by Voice:

• Indicate whether each of the following sentences is active or passive.

Number One

The album was reviewed unfavorably by most critics.

Passive!

Number Two

The student body elects the council president.

Active!

Number Three

Angelo’s courageous act averted a tragedy.

Active!

Number Four

A bit part was played (by the famous director).

Passive!

Number Five

Someone ( at the airport )recognized the

popular rock star.

Active!!

Number Six

A volunteer usually leads the discussion.

ACTIVE!!

Number Seven

That counting game is played by children all over the world.

PASSIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!

Number Eight

A prophet’s warnings are usually ignored at first.

PASSIVE!!!??!!!

Number Nine

W. C. Handy composed the blues classic “St. Louis

Blues.”

ACTIVE!

Number Ten

Handy’s contributions to jazz music are appreciated by

modern musicians.

PASSIVE!!

ONE FINAL REMINDER

• In your own writing, work to make your verbs “active” whenever possible.

• Passive voice construction should be limited to situations in which the subject is unclear.