Active Voice vs. Passive Voice

Active Voice and Passive Voice Definitions

In sentences using the active voice, the subject performs the action. In sentences using the passive voice, the subject is acted upon.

Examples of Active Voice/Passive Voice

The police arrested the suspect late last night. [Active: The subject “police” performs the action “arrested.”]

The suspect was arrested by police late last night. [Passive: The subject “suspect” is being acted upon.]

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The archaeologist found an ancient artifact. [Active: The subject “archaeologist” performs the action “found.”]

An ancient artifact was found by the archaeologist. [Passive: The subject “artifact” is being acted upon.]

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Miriam folded the sheets and pillowcases. [Active: The subject “Miriam” performs the action “folded.”]

The pillowcases were folded by Miriam. [Passive: The subject “pillowcases” is being acted upon.]

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