Active vs Passive Voice Essentials

Front

Active Voice

Back

Subject performs action

Front

Passive Voice

Back

Subject receives action

Front

Example: Active

Back

The cat chased the mouse.

Front

Example: Passive

Back

The mouse was chased by the cat.

Front

Active: Emphasis

Back

On the doer of action

Front

Passive: Emphasis

Back

On the receiver of action

Front

Active: Structure

Back

Subject + Verb + Object

Front

Passive: Structure

Back

Object + Verb + Subject

Front

Active: Use

Back

Direct and clear

Front

Passive: Use

Back

Focus on action or receiver