Definition of Active Voice
A clause or a sentence in which the subject performs an action directly is known as active voice. The action performed by the subject is expressed through its representative verb.
Explanation of Active Voice
In an active voice sentence, the subject acts upon its verb. The action performed by the subject is stated by the transitive verb. It gives a clear and direct meaning. It has a clear subject + verb + object structure that is easy to comprehend.
Moreover, an active voice contains a less number of words which enhances the quality of writing. The use of active voice is also preferred in order to make the writing more comprehensible for the readers.
Usage of Active Voice
Business reports and creative writing demand to be clear, direct and precise. Therefore, active voice is the most straightforward way to present the ideas because it gives a clear and direct meaning. Active voice contains a smaller number of words which makes it more understandable. It also helps in building up the interest of the readers in the writing.
Moreover, the use of active voice enhances the quality of written work. As it uses fewer words, it grabs the attention of readers as well.
Examples of Active Voice
Excerpt from Harold and Maud by Colin Higgins:
“You know, at one time, I used to break into pet shops to liberate the canaries. But I decided that was an idea way before its time”.
The underlined words in the aforementioned passage are active voices. The use of active voice adds directness to the passage. It is obvious from the above sentences that actions performed by subject “I” are expressed via verbs i-e break and decided.
- Excerpt from Hillary’s Once in a Lifetime by Kathleen Parker:
“Finally, Hillary swept in and moved down a line of huggers toward a raised platform centered in the room…Her positioning meant that she had to keep turning in order to hug back. Around and around and around she turned, 360 degrees”.
In the given excerpt the subject is Hilary. She performs different actions that are shown through the verbs: swept in, moved on, had and turned. All the sentences of the excerpt are in active voice as well as the verbs are in active mode.
- Excerpt from Heart of Darkness by Colin Higgins:
“I looked at him, lost in astonishment…’Ah, he talked to you of love!’ I said, much amused. ‘It isn’t what you think,’ he cried, almost passionately”.
In the above excerpt, it is evident that the author has used active voice. With the help of an active voice author has created clarity and directness in the sentences.
Following are the verbs of active voices from the passage: looked, talked and think. While the subjects performing those actions are: I, he and you.
- Excerpt from To the Lighthouse by Virginia Woolf:
“D’you remember, Mr. Carmichael?” she was inclined to ask, looking at the old man. But he had pulled his hat half over his forehead: he was asleep, or he was dreaming, or he was lying there catching words, she supposed”.
In this passage, Virginia has used many active voices that give a direct and clear image. The subjects in the passage are: she and he. While the actions performed by the subjects are stated by verbs that are: ask, had pulled, asleep, dreaming and lying.