Active and passive voice are two distinct ways of constructing sentences, each with its own impact on clarity and emphasis in communication. In the active voice, the subject of the sentence performs the action, making the sentence direct and dynamic. For example, in the sentence “The chef cooked a delicious meal,” the subject (the chef) is actively doing the cooking. This structure is often preferred in writing because it tends to be clearer and more engaging.

In contrast, the passive voice shifts the focus from the subject to the action itself or the recipient of the action. In a passive construction, the subject receives the action rather than performing it. For instance, “A delicious meal was cooked by the chef” emphasizes the meal rather than the chef. While passive voice can be useful for highlighting the action or when the doer is unknown or irrelevant, overusing it can lead to vagueness and a lack of clarity.

Understanding when to use active versus passive voice is crucial for effective communication. Active voice typically conveys energy and immediacy, making it ideal for most writing. However, the passive voice can be valuable in specific contexts, such as scientific writing or formal reports, where the action itself is more significant than who performed it. Mastery of both voices allows writers and speakers to choose the most appropriate structure for their intended message. 

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Jasmine Virani

I’m Jasmine Virani, and my mission as an English tutor is to help students achieve their language goals. I focus on creating a supportive and engaging environment where personalized lessons and interactive activities thrive. My goal is to enhance students' writing, prepare them for exams, and improve their conversational skills in a way that makes learning enjoyable and effective.