Passive Voice in English: Understanding Its Mechanics and Best Practices

When it comes to writing in English, the passive voice can be a tricky concept for many. Often perceived as awkward, wordy, and overly complex, the passive voice does have its place in certain contexts. However, it is generally advisable to use the passive voice sparingly in most writing assignments to achieve clarity and conciseness.

Understanding the Mechanics of the Passive Voice

It's important to clarify that the passive voice does not inherently make something "work" better or worse. The passive voice simply shifts the focus from the actor (subject) to the action itself, or the object of the action. An example of passive voice is 'The apple is being eaten by them,' whereas its active counterpart is 'They are eating an apple.' In the active voice, the subject (they) performs the action (eating).

The Role of the 'Be' Verb in Passive Voice

It's often emphasized that the verb 'to be' is a key component of the passive voice. However, it's important to understand that when 'be' is used in its main form (such as 'is,' 'am,' or 'are'), it refers to a linking verb. In this case, clauses with 'be' as the main verb are neither active nor passive. The example sentence, 'He is a writer,' illustrates this point: 'is' is a linking verb, and the sentence is neither active nor passive.

Practical Usage and Advice

One major drawback of the passive voice is its tendency to make sentences wordy and less direct. For instance, consider the sentences: 'The document has been signed by the CEO,' versus 'The CEO has signed the document.' The active voice version is more concise and straightforward. In most cases, it's recommended to use the active voice to improve clarity and readability.

However, there are instances where the passive voice is necessary, such as when the agent of the action is unknown or unimportant. For example, 'The mistake has been corrected' is more effective than 'The teacher has corrected the mistake' when the teacher is not the focus of the sentence.

Sequencing and Pacing in Writing

Effective writing often involves maintaining a flow and a sense of pacing, meaning that the sequence of words should align logically with the sequence of actions. Consider the following examples:

Active: Before he entered the house, he checked the mail.
Passive: He checked the mail before he entered the house.
Active: He entered the house after he checked the mail.

The active voice here is more direct and easier to follow. It maintains a clear sequence of events, which enhances the readability and engagement of the reader. When you switch to the passive voice, the sequence becomes less immediate and can potentially confuse the reader.

Best Practices for Effective Writing

To ensure that your writing is clear and engaging, follow these tips:

Use the active voice unless the agent is unimportant or unknown. Avoid unnecessary use of the 'to be' verb if the passive voice is not necessary. Keep sequencing in mind. Ensure that actions follow a logical and direct sequence. On the other hand, use the passive voice for clarity and emphasis on the object of the action. Practice: Read and rewrite passages to improve your understanding and use of both active and passive voices.

By implementing these practices, you can enhance the effectiveness and clarity of your writing, making it more appealing to your audience and improving its overall impact.

Conclusion

The passive voice is a powerful tool in writing, but its use should be carefully considered to avoid awkwardness and wordiness. By understanding the mechanics of the passive voice and applying best practices, you can improve the clarity and effectiveness of your writing. Whether you choose to use the active or passive voice, the key is to do so with intention and for the benefit of your reader.