Passive Voice

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May 1, 2024 Updated May 11, 2025 20 minute read

Passive voice is a grammatical construction where the subject of a sentence receives the action of the verb, rather than performing it. While sometimes viewed as a less direct or weaker alternative to the active voice, understanding and appropriately utilizing the passive voice is a crucial skill for effective communication. This construction allows writers and speakers to shift emphasis, convey information with objectivity, and navigate various stylistic and contextual demands. Exploring the passive voice can reveal its utility in diverse fields, from scientific and academic writing to legal documents and even creative expression.

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A Student's Introduction to English Grammar

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Comprehensive reference grammar of English. It provides a detailed discussion of the passive voice, including its use in different contexts.

Oxford Modern English Grammar

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Comprehensive reference grammar of English. It provides a detailed discussion of the passive voice, including its use in different contexts.

Grammar of Spoken and Written English

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Corpus-based grammar of English. It provides a detailed discussion of the passive voice, including its use in different contexts.

Halliday's Introduction to Functional Grammar

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Comprehensive reference grammar of English. It provides a detailed discussion of the passive voice, including its use in different contexts.

English Grammar in Use Supplementary Exercises with...

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Popular grammar book for learners of English. It provides a clear and concise explanation of the passive voice.

Practical English Usage

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Popular usage guide for learners of English. It provides a clear and concise explanation of the passive voice.

The Cambridge Encyclopedia of the English Language

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Provides a comprehensive overview of the English language, including a discussion of the passive voice.

An Introduction to English Grammar

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Comprehensive dictionary of English grammar, including a detailed discussion of the passive voice.

Change in Contemporary English

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Provides a historical overview of English grammar, including a discussion of the development of the passive voice.

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Passive Voice

Path to Passive Voice

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