Introduction to Voice in Grammar
In the world of grammar, “Voice” refers to the relationship between the action (verb) and the person or thing doing that action (subject). Understanding when to use the Active Voice and when to switch to the Passive Voice is the hallmark of a sophisticated writer. It changes the focus of your sentence and sets the tone for your entire article.
1. The Active Voice (Fail-e-Maroof)
In the Active Voice, the subject of the sentence performs the action. This is the most common and direct way of communicating.
- Structure: Subject + Verb + Object.
- Example: “The chef (Subject) prepared (Verb) the meal (Object).”
- Why use it? It is clear, concise, and strong. Most bloggers and journalists prefer the active voice because it sounds authoritative and moves the story forward quickly.
2. The Passive Voice (Fail-e-Majhool)
In the Passive Voice, the subject is no longer the “doer.” Instead, the subject is being acted upon. Sometimes, the person doing the action isn’t even mentioned.
- Structure: Object + Verb + (by Subject).
- Example: “The meal (Object) was prepared (Verb) by the chef.”
- Why use it? It is useful when the action is more important than the person doing it, or when the “doer” is unknown. For example, “The window was broken” (we don’t know who did it).
When to Switch Between Them?
While modern writing advice tells us to “stay active,” the passive voice has its own place:
- Scientific Writing: “The chemicals were mixed” sounds more professional than “I mixed the chemicals.”
- Formal Reports: To sound neutral and unbiased.
- Creating Mystery: In literature, to hide the identity of a character performing an action.
Rules for Transformation
To change a sentence from active to passive:
- Move the Object to the beginning (it becomes the new Subject).
- Change the main verb into its past participle form.
- Add a form of the auxiliary verb “to be” (is, am, are, was, were).
Conclusion
A balanced writer knows how to play with both voices. Use the active voice for energy and directness, and save the passive voice for moments where the result of the action deserves the spotlight. Mastering this balance will make your content on Danistnama stand out for its linguistic quality.
