Using active and passive voice
There are times when the passive voice is appropriate, but writers tend to over-use the passive voice, especially in workplace writing. This table compares uses of the active and the passive voice. These are general observations, and there are always exceptions to these conditions. However, our point is that you should have a good reason for deciding to use the passive voice.
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Active makes it clear who is performing the action in the sentence (the doer). Example: Our two project officers set up the vaccination camp in December. |
Passive tends to emphasize the event, rather than the doer. Example: The vaccination camp was set up in December. Passive may be useful when the doer is not known. Example: The package was lost en route to Bhopal. |
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Active voice gives the writer the option of being more personal. Example: Based on my observations, I recommend the following changes. |
Passive voice removes the personal connection. Example: Based on the observations described, the following changes are recommended. Passive voice can disguise the doer. Example: It was decided that the programme should be cancelled without delay. |
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| Active voice is more concise and direct than passive voice. | ||
Example - active version: The deputy director decided to implement the new program. |
Example - passive version: It was decided by the deputy director that the new programme would be implemented. |
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