2. Some Uses
A cell phone can be used to locate
someone. (general statement)
They should be admitted. (emphasis
on subject)
It was decided. (responsibility
hidden)
My family was contacted.(actors
unknown)
3. About Passive Voice
The passive voice uses the receiver
of the action as the subject.
e.g. The car was washed. (The car
received the washing.)
The bill was paid. (The bill received the
payment.)
4. More about the Passive
Voice
Passive Voice is used to emphasize
the object or when the subject is not
clear, not known, or de-emphasized.
Taxes were raised.
The swimming pool was closed.
The tests were given.
5. Passive Voice Forms:
Present
The passive voice in the present
tense is formed with the be verb (is,
are) and the past participle of the
verb.
Present - The car is washed in 30
minutes.
Present Progressive – The car is
being washed right now.
6. Passive Voice Forms:Past
Past
The car was washed.
Past Progressive
The car was being washed when the
storm began.
7. Passive Voice Forms:
Present Perfect
Present Perfect
• The car has been washed.
The present perfect progressive is
hardly ever used in the passive.
• This house has been being remodeled since
we moved into the neighborhood six
months ago.
8. Passive Voice Forms: Future
Future (will)– The car will be washed
before lunch.
Future (be going to) – The car is going
to be washed before lunch.
9. General Guidelines
Use the passive voice carefully.
Use the passive voice for emphasis.
Use the passive voice rarely.
