Passive Voice Misuse
Passive voice misuse occurs when sentences are structured so that the subject receives the action rather than performing it, leading to unclear and weak writing.
This misuse often obscures who is responsible for the action, resulting in sentences that lack directness and impact.
Understanding Passive Voice
Passive voice occurs when the subject of the sentence receives the action rather than performing it. Its structure typically includes a form of "to be" and a past participle.
Examples:
The ball was thrown by John. (Passive)
John threw the ball. (Active)
In passive voice, the action's recipient comes first, making the sentence less direct. Understanding this structure helps you identify when it's misused.
Common Misuses of Passive Voice
Overuse of passive voice can weaken your writing. It can create ambiguity and vagueness by obscuring the subject performing the action.
Examples:
Mistakes were made. (Who made them?)
The meeting was scheduled for tomorrow. (Who scheduled it?)
The project was completed on time. (By whom?)
In these examples, the passive voice hides the subject, making sentences less clear and impactful. It often leaves readers with questions about who is responsible for the action.
Identifying Passive Voice Misuse
Spotting passive voice misuse requires attention to sentence structure. Look for forms of "to be" followed by a past participle.
Common Indicators:
was, were, is, are, been, being
Past participles (e.g., thrown, scheduled, made)
Practice Exercise: Identify the passive voice in these sentences:
The report was completed by Sarah.
The cake was eaten by the children.
The project is being reviewed by the team.
Common Mistakes:
Assuming passive voice is more formal or sophisticated.
Using passive voice to avoid assigning responsibility.
How to Correct Passive Voice Misuse
To correct passive voice, convert the sentence to active voice by making the subject perform the action.
Examples:
Passive: The report was completed by Sarah.
Active: Sarah completed the report.
Passive: The cake was eaten by the children.
Active: The children ate the cake.
Practice Exercise: Rewrite the following sentences in active voice:
The book was read by the students.
The decision was made by the committee.
The song was sung by the choir.
Additional Rules:
Place the subject before the verb for directness.
Ensure the subject is clearly responsible for the action.
When to Use Passive Voice Appropriately
There are situations where passive voice is acceptable or preferred, such as when the action's recipient is more important or the doer is unknown.
Examples:
The novel was published in 1920. (Focus on the novel)
The package was delivered this morning. (Unknown who delivered it)
The law was passed by the legislature. (Focus on the law)
Balancing passive and active voice in writing can help you maintain clarity and impact. Knowing when to use passive voice appropriately ensures your writing remains effective.