Passive Voice

A Few Brief Notes

Some Uses

A cell phone can be used to locate someone. (general statement)

They should be admitted. (emphasis on subject)

It was decided. (responsibility hidden)

My family was contacted.(actors unknown)

About Passive Voice

The passive voice uses the receiver of the action as the subject.

e.g. The car was washed. (The car received the washing.)

The bill was paid. (The bill received the payment.)

More about the Passive Voice

Passive Voice is used to emphasize the object or when the subject is not clear, not known, or de-emphasized.

Taxes were raised.

The swimming pool was closed.

The tests were given.

Passive Voice Forms: Present

The passive voice in the present tense is formed with the be verb (is, are) and the past participle of the verb.

Present - The car is washed in 30 minutes.

Present Progressive – The car is being washed right now.

Passive Voice Forms:Past

Past

The car was washed.

Past Progressive

The car was being washed when the storm began.

Passive Voice Forms: Present Perfect

Present Perfect

• The car has been washed.

The present perfect progressive is hardly ever used in the passive.

• This house has been being remodeled since we moved into the neighborhood six months ago.

Passive Voice Forms: Future

Future (will)– The car will be washed before lunch.

Future (be going to) – The car is going to be washed before lunch.

General Guidelines

Use the passive voice carefully.

Use the passive voice for emphasis.

Use the passive voice rarely.