Ever felt confused or uncertain of the author’s intentions? When we write, we usually focus on things like spelling and punctuation, but we often forget about something called “voice.” This is about whether we’re saying things directly or indirectly. “Passive voice” is when things sound indirect, and “active voice” is when they’re more straightforward. 

In this blog, we are here to help you understand when to avoid passive voice in writing and why it’s important. 

Differences Between Passive and Active Voices

Active voice is a grammatical structure where the subject of the sentence performs the action expressed by the verb. It typically results in more direct, concise, and dynamic sentences.

Example of active voice:

“John (subject) ate (action) the apple.”

In this example, “John” is the subject performing the action of “eating” the apple.

Passive voice, on the other hand, is a grammatical structure where the subject of the sentence is acted upon by the verb. It often leads to sentences that are more complex and indirect.

Example of passive voice:

“The apple (subject) was eaten (action) by John.”

In this example, “the apple” is the subject being acted upon by the verb “was eaten,” and “by John” identifies the doer of the action.

While active voice emphasizes the doer of the action, making sentences more lively and engaging, passive voice tends to emphasize the action itself, sometimes creating a sense of detachment or formality. Moreover, active voice has action. Passive voice creates pauses.

Purdue University’s Online Writing Lab (OWL) offers additional academic resources on the differences between these two voices.

Understanding the Impact of Passive Voice

Passive voice can obscure the doer of the action and lead to ambiguity in writing. 

• It can make sentences convoluted and less engaging for the reader.
• It can weaken the impact of your writing by distancing the reader from the action.
• It often leads to wordiness and can obscure the main point of the sentence.

Instances when to avoid passive voice in writing

There are many reasons to choose one voice over the other. Yet, here are six reasons to avoid writing in passive voice.

• Loss of Clarity: Passive voice can obscure the doer of the action, making it unclear who or what is responsible.

PV: The report was submitted.

AV: John submitted the report.

• Diminished Impact: Passive voice can weaken the impact of your message, making it less memorable.

PV: Mistakes were made.

AV: We made mistakes.

• Impersonal Tone: Passive voice can create distance between the writer and the reader, resulting in a less engaging tone.

PV: It was decided that changes would be implemented.

AV: We decided to implement changes.

• Ambiguity in Agency: Passive voice can obscure accountability by not clearly indicating who performed the action.

PV: The window was broken.

AV: Someone broke the window.

• Wordiness: Passive voice often requires more words to convey the same message, leading to unnecessary verbosity.

PV: The cake was eaten by me.

AV: I ate the cake.

• Reduced Readability: Passive voice can make sentences more convoluted and difficult to follow, hindering comprehension.

PV: The message was received by the recipients.

AV: The recipients received the message.

Why is Active Voice Often Preferable?

There are specific instances when it’s advisable to avoid passive voice, such as in scientific or technical writing, when clarity and precision are paramount.

• In Direct Instructions: Active voice is preferable for giving clear instructions.
• In Persuasive Writing: Active voice tends to be more persuasive and impactful.
• In Narrative Writing: Active voice keeps the narrative engaging and dynamic.

Furthermore, active voice, with its directness and clarity, serves as a beacon of effective communication in the vast sea of language. Here are compelling reasons why it’s often the preferred choice:

• Clarity: Active voice illuminates the subject performing the action, ensuring crystal-clear comprehension.

Passive: “The ball was kicked by the player.”

Active: “The player kicked the ball.”

• Engagement: Active voice captivates readers with its dynamic energy, keeping them invested in the narrative.

Passive: “The story was told by the author.”

Active: “The author told the story.”

• Conciseness: Active voice trims unnecessary words, delivering the message succinctly.

Passive: “The cake was baked by Sarah.”

Active: “Sarah baked the cake.”

• Responsibility: Active voice assigns accountability, fostering transparency and trust.

Passive: “The error was made.”

Active: “I made the error.”

• Vividness: Active voice paints vivid pictures, infusing writing with life and vitality.

Passive: “The painting was admired by many.”

Active: “Many admired the painting.”

• Flow: Active voice flows effortlessly, carrying readers along on a smooth linguistic journey.

Passive: “The song was sung by the choir.”

Active: “The choir sang the song.”

Tips for Writing in Active Voice

Transitioning from passive to active voice requires attention to sentence structure and a focus on the subject performing the action.

• Identify the Doer: Clearly identify who is performing the action in your sentence to maintain clarity and directness.
• Start with the Subject: Begin your sentence with the subject to ensure a strong and active voice.
• Use Strong Verbs: Utilize powerful verbs that convey action and energy, enhancing the vibrancy of your writing.
• Avoid Nominalizations: Instead of using nouns created from verbs, opt for the original verb form to keep your sentences active and engaging.
• Keep it Simple: Strive for simplicity and brevity in your writing to maintain the momentum and impact of your active voice.
• Read Aloud: Read your sentences aloud to ensure they flow smoothly and maintain an active tone, keeping your readers engaged from start to finish.

Explore our service to enhance your writing.

Conclusion and Recap

In conclusion, understanding when to avoid passive voice in writing is essential for clear and effective communication. By recognizing instances where active voice is more appropriate and implementing the tips provided, writers can significantly enhance the quality of their work.

Key Takeaways

• Passive voice can hinder clarity and impact in writing.
• Active voice is generally preferred for its directness and clarity.
• Avoid passive voice in instructions, persuasive writing, and narratives.
• Use strong verbs and prioritize the subject in active voice writing