Active or Passive
The guests left the party by 8pm.
Active!
S V O
The difficult sonata was played by the talented pianist.
The talented pianist played the difficult sonata.
Which voice always includes a form of the verb "to be"?
Passive Voice
The principal saw the boy pulling on his loose tooth.
Active
S V O
The green dress was worn by Sarah.
Sarah wore the green dress.
Which voice is usually more direct and less confusing?
Active voice
The sweet melody was sung by Karen.
Passive
O V S
The winning goal for the Tigers was scored by Sean.
Sean scored the winning goal for the Tigers.
Which voice is usually wordier?
Passive
The boy was told to wait for the nurse.
Passive
O V S
The race was won.
Someone won the race.
If we the subject is unknown or not important, is it better to use the active voice or passive voice?
Passive voice.
Complaints were made about the music.
V O
The missing phone was turned in.
Someone turned in the missing phone.
In a summary, is it usually better to use passive or active voice?
Active! It's more concise and clear.