essay checker passive voice

Passive Voice Checker

Detect whether sentences are in the passive voice or not.

Given a list of sentences, this passive voice detector utility takes each sentence and outputs whether or not it is in the passive voice as well as the passive auxiliary.

Tags : passive voice active voice passive voice checker passive voice detector

Access Passive Voice Checker API

Install Extension

Using this Tool

Paste the text where you would like to detect the passive voice input box above, then click the Check button to get the results. The passive phrase will be highlighted. You can also use our Passive to Active Converter .

Want to use this for your own application? Contact us regarding Sapling's API. We also offer additional classifiers and text generation endpoints.

Passive Voice Detector

• Passive Voice
• Other Writing Tools

Sentences with Passive Voice:

Auxiliary verb phrases are shown in italics with yellow highlights, while the transitive action verb is shown bold with green highlights.

☣ Not sure if the passive voice detector is correct? Try the by zombies [1] test. When a sentence is written in passive voice, the subject is being acted upon rather than performing the action. The zombie test works by adding an actor (the zombies) to perform the action.

Click on the bio hazard symbol ( ☣ ) on the left to summon the zombies. The phrase "by zombies" will be inserted (by zombies!) next to the transitive verb in the sentence list above. If the new sentence reads clearly as the zombies doing the action, the sentence is written in passive voice. Click the bio hazard symbol again for the sentences to return to normal.

[1] Zombies Test

Readability Analyzer

Estimates the readability of a passage of text using the Flesch Reading Ease, Fog Scale Level, Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, and other metrics.

Difficult and Extraneous Word Finder

The difficult & extraneous word finder helps you write clearly and concisely by identifying possible weak points in your prose, including rare words, hard words, adverbs and extra hedge words.

Spell Checker

Highlights spelling mistakes in a passage of text.

About the Passive Voice Detector

The passive voice detector automatically detects passive voice in a block of text (now with the aid of zombies!).

When a sentence is written in passive voice, the subject is being acted upon rather than doing the acting. Passive voice is often avoided by professional writers because it can make the sentence needlessly longer, more complicated and unclear as well as shifting the emphases away from the sentence subject. While there's nothing grammatically incorrect about passive voice, the general rule of thumb is to strive for less than 2% passive voice.

The most common passive voice construction is a variant of the auxiliary verb 'to be' followed by the past participle of a transitive verb. Our passive voice detector finds this form, as well as other less common constructions, including additional auxiliary verbs like 'get' (e.g. "Every friday he gets paid."). A common mistake is to assume every past form of the 'to be' verb is passive voice (e.g. "Grandma was calling."). In the second example, the subject (Grandma) is preforming the action. This is an example of past progressive tense and is not considered passive voice.

Still unsure what is considered passive voice? Try the Zombie test. If you can add the phrase "by zombies" after the verb and the sentence still makes sense, it's passive voice. The sentence "Every friday he gets paid by Zombies" makes grammatical sense where "Grandma was calling by zombies" does not.

To get started enter your text in the Passage to be Analyzed box. If you want to leave a passive construction in the text, you can dismiss the warning by clicking on it in the Passive Voice Tab.

Have your own website? Now you can use the Site Thin Content Checker to analyze the content of each page on your site with the Passive Voice Detector, as well as and other Writing Assistance Tools .

🌟 New Update: As of JAN 30, 2024, Experience enhanced grammar and punctuation detection! 🚀

Passive Voice Checker

Install the app to check longer texts.

Grammar Lookup, Free Passive Voice Checker

When it comes to hitting the nail right while writing – you have to focus on a lot of things. For example, using an active voice is capable of making your piece more readable. On the other hand, passive voice makes the writing harder to comprehend.

But a lot of writers struggle to maintain an active voice throughout their writing. Therefore, tools have been created to guide emerging writers on how to avoid passive voice. Grammar Lookup is a leading tool in this domain.

To Sum It All Up

The Grammar Lookup website serves as an excellent passive voice checker. It can be used by writers and students to improve their quality of writing. As passive was an error that is looked down on in the grammar community. 

This tool is simple and easy to use, meaning anyone can use it easily. As a result, it generally has good reviews and serves both British and American English.

If users are not satisfied with the performance of Grammar Lookup they can opt for alternate sources. Some of the named examples include Grammarly, Pro Writing Aid, Hemingway App, White Smoke. They provide paid and premium versions and are able to successfully fix passive voice misuse.

[email protected]

Get writing superpowers with artificial intelligence. We at AISEO will help you convert your thoughts to blogs and can write for you at the click of a button.

Aiseo chrome | Rewrite like a pro, everywhere you write

From complex to clear with our readability improver.

Readability

Grade Level

Export as Doc

Export as PDF

Export as HTML

Export as Markdown

Complex phrase

Readability:

Limit is 125 words for free accounts. To get 40K characters limit subscripe to Premium

Characters Count

Reasdability

Grade Levels

Summarize your Word (.docx) and PowerPoint (.pptx) files with Æ-Intelligence summarizer.

Summarize your Word (.docx), PowerPoint (.pptx) and .txt files with Æ-Intelligence summarizer.

Heading Count

Improve content readability in a jiffy with the help of AISEO’s Readability Improver.

It’s important that your content can be read and understood by readers with any level of language proficiency. Even Google considers readability as an important SEO factor. AISEO’s Readability Improver tool uses Hemingway Editor’s rules on your content and enhances its readability with AI superpowers in one click. It just doesn’t get better than that!

Although we would want it to offer a limited version for free, the huge processing costs mean AISEO’s Readability Improver is available only on the paid plans.

Based on how AI works, and our own testing, the output generated by the readability improver is unique. However, just like any other AI tool, it is advisable to run the output of AISEO’s Readability improver through a plagiarism checker.

Yes, it is one of the ranking factors. Google wants to send visitors to content that is easily readable and has a sophisticated algorithm to analyze web content’s readability.

No. You will have to do it yourself manually or use AISEO’s content optimizing capabilities that are available to paid customers.

if you follow the steps and improve the sentence structures for each of the suggestions, the output will pass any readability checker.

Need to translate more? Try DeepL Pro!

Subscribe to DeepL Pro to translate more than 5000 characters with the online translator.

characters translated.

Upgrade to translate more than 5000 characters.

You run out of credits

Upgrade to get Unlimited credits.

Daily limit 200 credits exceeded (Check our Fair usage policy)

Daily limit 275 (130,000 characters) credits exceeded (Check our FUP)

How It Works

Paste the source article/blog in the input box on the left.

Check the Hemingway Editor-style highlighted sentences/phrases that need improvement.

Click the Improve button and wait for the output.

Use in-line tools to improve the readability of sentences/phrases individually, if needed.

Why Choose Aiseo's Redability Tool?

Before you scroll away, take a moment to revolutionize your content creation process. Experience writing powered by advanced AI.

Instant Clarity Checks

In mere seconds, understand the complexity of your text and get recommendations for improvement.

Brand Voice Customization

Align every piece of content seamlessly with your brand's voice, maintaining consistency and uniqueness.

Score Metrics

Receive an immediate readability score, guiding you to the optimal range for your audience.

Multiple Highlight Options

From challenging phrases to passive language, we spotlight areas that need attention.

Integrated Synonyms & Simplifications

Get alternative word suggestions to make dense content digestible.

Enhanced Engagement

Clear, simple content keeps your readers hooked, increasing time on page and user interaction.

The most sophisticated passive voice checker in the industry.

And the best part is - it’s FREE to start with! AISEO’s passive voice changer helps you with converting passive voice to active voice using advaned AI engines (such as GPT-4, ...).

AISEO Passive Voice Checker

Enhance clarity: craft crystal-clear sentences.

Are your sentences muddled, leaving your readers scratching their heads? Have you ever wondered if there's a way to make your writing more straightforward and crystal clear? You're not alone in this struggle. In fact, studies show that a whopping 88% of online readers admit to skimming through content due to its complexity.

Crafting clear and concise sentences is crucial, and here's where the AISEO free Passive Voice Checker and Corrector steps in. With our tool, you can effortlessly transform convoluted phrasing into easily digestible prose. Say goodbye to ambiguity and hello to straightforward communication.

According to a recent study by Neilson Norman Group , web users only read about 20% of the words on a page. That's a staggering figure, highlighting the need for simplicity and clarity in your content. By using our AISEO tool, you can dramatically increase the chances of your audience absorbing your message effectively.

So, if you're tired of leaving your readers in a fog of confusion, give AISEO Passive Voice Changer a try. Craft crystal-clear sentences that resonate with your audience and keep them coming back for more.

Paraphrasing modes

How to checker for passive voice sentences using an aiseo passive voice checker.

Using the AISEO Passive Voice Checker is a straightforward process to ensure your writing is clear and engaging. Here's how to checker for passive voice sentences efficiently:

Step 1: Begin by copying and pasting your text into the AISEO Passive Voice Checker.

Step 2: The passive voice sentence will be automatically highlighted by 'Green' color.

Step 3: You can check the 'Readability' score at the bottom.

Step 4: You can set the content goals by selecting the audience, content complexity, voice, tone, and purpose.

Step 5: You can improve the readability of the content by clicking on 'Improve.'

Step 6: The improved content will be displayed on the right side text box.

Using the AISEO Passive Voice Changer empowers you to craft content that captivates your audience, ensuring every word resonates with clarity and purpose.

What is passive voice in writing?

Passive voice in writing is a grammatical construction that alters the focus of a sentence, shifting it away from the subject performing the action and towards the action or the object affected by it. In passive voice, the object of an action becomes the subject of the sentence, while the performer of the action often becomes less prominent or is omitted entirely. This can lead to sentences that are less direct and less engaging.

Key characteristics of passive voice include:

• Object as the subject: The object of the action takes the position of the subject in the sentence.
• Use of auxiliary verbs: Passive voice often requires auxiliary verbs like "be," "was," "is," or "has been."
• Action receiver emphasized: The focus is on what receives the action rather than who performs it.

Passive voice can be useful in certain situations, such as when the performer of the action is unknown or less important or when you want to create a sense of formality. However, it is generally advised to use active voice in writing to make your sentences more direct, engaging, and clear. Active voice places the subject as the doer of the action, resulting in more dynamic and reader-friendly writing.

How does passive voice differ from active voice?

Passive voice and active voice are two distinct grammatical structures used in writing and speaking, and they have significant differences in how they convey information.

In active voice:

• The subject of the sentence performs the action.
• The sentence structure typically follows a straightforward order: subject, verb, object.
• Active voice is more direct, concise, and engaging, making it the preferred choice for most types of writing.
• Example: "The chef (subject) prepared (verb) a delicious meal (object)."

In passive voice:

• The object of the action becomes the subject of the sentence.
• The sentence structure is often rearranged: object, verb (usually preceded by a form of "be"), and then the agent (the one performing the action).
• Passive voice can be less clear and may lack the immediacy of active voice.
• Example: "A delicious meal (subject/object) was prepared (passive verb) by the chef (agent)."

The choice between active and passive voice depends on your writing goals. Active voice is generally preferred for clear and direct communication, while passive voice can be used strategically, such as in scientific or formal writing when the performer of the action is less relevant or when you want to create a sense of objectivity.

What is a Passive Voice Checker tool and How does it work?

A Passive Voice Checker tool is a software application designed to assist writers in identifying and correcting passive voice sentences in their written content. It serves as a valuable writing assistant, helping users enhance the clarity and readability of their text by highlighting instances of passive voice and suggesting alternatives.

Here's how a Passive Voice Changer tool works:

• Text Input: Users typically input their written content into the tool, either by copying and pasting or by directly typing it into the provided interface.
• Analysis and Detection: The tool employs a set of algorithms and linguistic analysis to scan the text for passive voice constructions. It identifies sentences where the object of the action becomes the subject and where passive voice indicators, such as auxiliary verbs ("is," "was," "has been"), are present.
• Highlighting: Passive voice sentences are usually highlighted or marked within the text to make them easily identifiable.
• Suggestion and Correction: Some advanced tools may also offer suggestions for rewriting passive voice sentences into active voice for immediate correction. These suggestions help users improve their writing on the spot.
• User Review and Editing: After detection and highlighting, users can review the identified passive voice sentences and decide whether to accept the suggested corrections or make their own edits to enhance the text's clarity and engagement.

In essence, a Passive Voice Checker tool simplifies the process of identifying and addressing passive voice issues, making it a valuable resource for writers seeking to improve the quality and impact of their written content.

What are the languages supported by AISEO's S?

English, Bulgarian, Czech, German, Greek, French, Spanish, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Dutch, Japanese, Danish, Hungarian, Lithuanian, Latvian, Romanian, Slovak, Slovenian, Finnish, Russian, Estonian, Swedish, Chinese.

Save Time: Effortless Passive Voice Detection

Are you tired of spending endless hours proofreading and editing your content, searching for those elusive passive voice sentences? Time is a precious commodity, and we've all been there, staring at the screen, wondering if there's a better way. Well, the good news is that you're not alone.

Imagine the relief of effortlessly detecting passive voice in your writing, saving you valuable time and energy. Enter the AISEO Passive Voice Changer – your time-saving solution.

According to a recent survey conducted by the Content Marketing Institute , content creators identify time constraints as one of their top challenges, with 56% struggling to meet deadlines. It's clear that time is of the essence.

Our AISEO tool streamlines the editing process, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – your content's quality and impact. Don't let passive voice drain your time and productivity. With AISEO, effortless passive voice detection is just a click away, empowering you to write more efficiently and meet those crucial deadlines.

Inline rewriting tools

Why should i avoid passive voice in my writing.

Avoiding passive voice in your writing is essential for several compelling reasons:

• Clarity and Directness: Active voice sentences are typically clearer and more direct, making your message easier to understand. The subject of the action is the focus, leading to a more straightforward communication style.
• Engagement: Active voice engages readers more effectively because it offers a dynamic and engaging narrative. Readers can connect with the action and follow the storyline with greater interest.
• Conciseness: Passive voice often requires more words to convey the same message, resulting in wordy and convoluted sentences. Active voice allows you to express ideas concisely and efficiently.
• Improved Readability: Documents with active voice are generally more readable and accessible. Whether it's a blog post, academic paper, or marketing content, active voice ensures your audience can absorb your message with ease.
• SEO Benefits: Search engines prefer content written in active voice because it tends to be more straightforward and informative. Using active voice can positively impact your website's search engine rankings.
• Professionalism: In many professional settings, such as business communication and academic writing, active voice is preferred because it conveys confidence and authority.

In summary, avoiding passive voice in your writing enhances clarity, engagement, and readability while also conveying professionalism. It's a powerful tool for effective communication in various contexts, ensuring your message is heard and understood as intended.

What are the common indicators of passive voice sentences?

Identifying passive voice sentences is crucial for improving your writing's clarity and effectiveness. Here are some common indicators to watch out for:

• Use of Passive Verbs: Passive voice often involves the use of passive verbs, which include forms of "be" (e.g., is, are, was, were, has been) along with a past participle (e.g., eaten, written, seen).
• Absence of a Clear Subject: In passive voice, the subject performing the action may be omitted or placed at the end of the sentence, making it less obvious.
• Focus on the Action Receiver: Passive voice shifts the emphasis from the doer of the action to the receiver of the action. Look for sentences where the object is more prominent than the subject.
• Wordy Phrases: Passive voice can lead to wordy and convoluted sentences, often requiring more words to convey the same message.
• Vague Agent: When the agent (the one performing the action) is mentioned, it may be vague or omitted entirely, leaving the reader wondering who or what is responsible.
• Use of Prepositions: Passive voice sentences may contain prepositions like "by," indicating the agent but not clearly stating it.
• Tense Forms: Pay attention to the verb tenses, especially when the sentence uses a form of "be" along with a past participle.

Being aware of these common indicators allows you to spot passive voice sentences in your writing, enabling you to revise them for greater clarity and impact.

Why should I use a Passive Voice Changer for my writing?

Utilizing a Passive Voice Changer can significantly enhance your writing for several compelling reasons:

• Clarity Improvement: Passive voice can often obscure the meaning of your sentences. A checker helps identify passive voice instances, allowing you to rephrase and clarify your writing.
• Time Efficiency: Manually identifying passive voice can be time-consuming. A tool streamlines the process, saving you valuable time during the editing phase.
• Consistency: A Passive Voice Changer helps you maintain consistency in your writing style by ensuring you use active voice consistently throughout your content.
• SEO Enhancement: Active voice is preferred for web content because it's more reader-friendly and search engine-friendly. A checker can help improve your SEO efforts by detecting and correcting passive voice.
• Professionalism: In business and academic writing, using active voice conveys professionalism and authority. A checker ensures your documents adhere to these standards.
• Learning Tool: Over time, using a checker can help you become more conscious of passive voice construction, ultimately improving your writing skills.
• Error Reduction: It reduces the risk of overlooking passive voice sentences that might compromise the effectiveness of your writing.

In summary, a Passive Voice Changer is a valuable writing assistant that not only polishes your content but also saves you time and ensures your writing aligns with readability and SEO standards.

Can a Passive Voice Changer improve my writing's clarity?

Indeed, a Passive Voice Changer can significantly enhance your writing's clarity by helping you effectively identify and rectify instances of passive voice. Here's how:

• Highlighting Passive Sentences: The tool promptly identifies passive voice constructions, making them easily visible for your review.
• Encourages Active Voice: By pinpointing passive sentences, it encourages you to rewrite them in active voice, which is inherently more direct and clear.
• Streamlined Editing: The checker streamlines the editing process by automating the detection of passive voice, allowing you to focus on making your writing more straightforward and engaging.
• Clarity Enhancement: Active voice sentences tend to be more concise and easier to understand, leading to improved clarity in your writing.
• Immediate Feedback: You receive real-time feedback on passive voice usage, enabling you to make corrections as you write or edit, rather than after the fact.
• Consistency: Using a Passive Voice Changer ensures consistency in your writing style, reducing the chances of inadvertently slipping into passive constructions.

In summary, a Passive Voice Changer serves as a valuable tool in your writing arsenal, helping you maintain clarity and readability throughout your content. It guides you toward more direct and engaging prose, ultimately enhancing your writing's impact.

Maximize Impact: Persuasive Writing Made Easy

Ever felt like your writing doesn't quite pack the punch you intended? Do you struggle to make your words truly resonate with your audience? You're not alone.

Crafting persuasive content isn't just a desire; it's a necessity in today's digital landscape. So, how can you make persuasive writing effortless and impactful? Enter the AISEO Passive Voice Changer.

According to a study by Demand Gen Report , 47% of B2B buyers consume 3-5 pieces of content before even engaging with a salesperson. Your words need to convince and convert, and passive voice can be a roadblock to that persuasion.

With AISEO, you can effortlessly identify and eliminate passive voice, ensuring your writing is compelling and persuasive. Don't let your message get lost in the noise. Maximize your impact and captivate your audience with persuasive writing made easy, courtesy of AISEO.

Supported languages

How does passive voice affect the clarity of my writing.

Passive voice can significantly impact the clarity of your writing, introducing several challenges that hinder effective communication. Here's how:

• Ambiguity: Passive voice often conceals the doer of the action, making it unclear who is responsible for the action.
• Wordiness: Passive constructions tend to be wordier, requiring more words to convey the same information. This can lead to convoluted sentences that confuse readers.
• Vague Agency: When the agent (the one performing the action) is omitted or vague, readers may struggle to identify who or what is responsible for the action.
• Reduced Impact: Passive voice can dilute the impact of your message, making it less engaging and memorable.
• Complexity: Passive sentences can be more complex and difficult to follow, especially when they involve multiple clauses or layers of information.
• Reader Engagement: Passive voice often fails to engage readers actively, as it places the emphasis on the action rather than the doer.
• Lack of Clarity: Passive constructions may leave readers with questions about the sequence of events or the significance of certain actions.

In summary, the use of passive voice in writing can introduce unnecessary complexity, reduce clarity, and impede the reader's understanding. To enhance clarity and ensure effective communication, it's advisable to use active voice whenever possible.

What is the impact of passive voice on reader engagement?

The impact of passive voice on reader engagement is noteworthy, and it often results in less engaging and less memorable content. Here's why:

• Reduced Clarity: Passive voice sentences can be less clear and direct, making it harder for readers to understand the message. This lack of clarity can lead to disengagement.
• Emphasis on Action, Not Actor: Passive constructions focus on the action itself rather than the doer of the action. This shift in emphasis can make the writing feel detached and less engaging.
• Less Involvement: Passive voice can distance the reader from the narrative or message, making them feel like passive observers rather than active participants in the story or information presented.
• Wordiness: Passive sentences tend to be wordier and more convoluted, which can make the content less engaging as readers may lose interest in long, complex sentences.
• Weaker Verbs: Passive constructions often use weaker verbs, which can result in less impactful writing. Strong, action-oriented verbs in active voice tend to engage readers more effectively.
• Diminished Impact: When readers are not actively engaged with the content, its impact is diminished, and the message may not resonate as strongly.

In summary, passive voice can hinder reader engagement by obscuring the message, creating a sense of detachment, and leading to less engaging and more convoluted writing. To keep readers actively engaged, writers often opt for active voice, which is more direct, clear, and engaging.

What are the key features of a reliable Passive Voice Detector?

A reliable Passive Voice Detector is an invaluable tool for writers, offering features that ensure accurate and efficient identification of passive voice in written content. Here are the key features to look for:

• Accurate Detection: The tool should accurately identify passive voice sentences, leaving no room for false positives or false negatives.
• User-Friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface makes it easy to input and analyze text, ensuring a smooth experience.
• Real-Time Feedback: It provides real-time feedback as you write or edit, allowing for immediate correction and learning opportunities.
• Suggestion and Correction: Some checkers offer suggestions for rephrasing passive sentences into active voice, aiding in the revision process.
• Customization: The ability to customize detection settings or exclude certain sections of text can enhance flexibility and adaptability.
• Compatibility: It should be compatible with various writing platforms, including word processors and web-based applications.
• Language Support: Look for a tool that supports multiple languages, catering to a diverse range of writers.
• Privacy and Security: Ensure that the tool respects your privacy and data security, especially when handling sensitive content.
• Cost and Accessibility: Consider whether the tool is available for free or as part of a subscription service, depending on your budget and needs.
• Integration: Integration with popular writing software or browser extensions can enhance your writing workflow.
• Feedback and Reporting: Some tools provide detailed reports and insights on writing improvements, aiding in self-assessment and growth.
• Customer Support: Reliable customer support ensures assistance if you encounter any issues or have questions about the tool.

In summary, a dependable Passive Voice Checker combines accuracy, user-friendliness, customization, and support to help writers identify and rectify passive voice effectively, ultimately enhancing the quality of their writing.

How accurate are Passive Voice Converter in detecting passive sentences?

The accuracy of Passive Voice Detector in detecting passive sentences can vary depending on the tool's sophistication and algorithms. Here's an overview:

• High Accuracy: Advanced Passive Voice Converter employs complex algorithms and natural language processing techniques, leading to a high degree of accuracy in identifying passive voice sentences.
• Contextual Analysis: Some checkers go beyond simple keyword detection and consider the context of the sentence, enhancing accuracy.
• False Positives: While accuracy has improved, false positives (incorrectly flagging active voice as passive) can still occur, though they are relatively rare with reliable tools.
• False Negatives: Some passive voice constructions may go undetected, resulting in occasional false negatives. This can be more common when dealing with less common sentence structures or complex language.
• User Input: The accuracy may also depend on the quality and clarity of the text input. If the input text contains errors or ambiguity, it can affect the checker's performance.
• Customization: Many checkers allow users to customize detection settings, which can improve accuracy by tailoring the tool to specific writing styles or preferences.
• Continuous Improvement: Reputable Passive Voice Converter often undergo updates and improvements, further enhancing their accuracy over time.

In summary, while online Passive Voice Checkers have made significant strides in accuracy, they may not be flawless. However, they remain valuable tools for writers, offering a high level of accuracy in identifying passive voice constructions and supporting the revision process.

Improve SEO: Rank Higher with Active Voice

Are you frustrated with your website not ranking as high as it should on search engines? Do you find it challenging to get noticed in the vast online landscape? You're not alone in this struggle. In fact, a recent study by Backlinko found that the first result on Google's search engine results page (SERP) receives a whopping 31.7% of clicks, while the tenth result only gets 3.1%.

To improve your website's SEO and climb the search engine rankings, you need your content to shine. One often overlooked but crucial aspect is using active voice. Passive voice can obscure your message and weaken your SEO efforts.

Here's where the AISEO Online Passive Voice Checker comes in. Our tool helps you easily identify and replace passive voice sentences, ensuring your content is not only clear but also optimized for search engines.

Don't let passive voice hold your website back. Improve your SEO, boost your visibility, and climb those SERPs with AISEO's active voice solution. Your journey to higher rankings begins here.

What are the benefits of using active voice over passive voice?

Using active voice over passive voice offers several benefits that can improve the quality and impact of your writing:

• Clarity: Active voice provides a clear and direct way of expressing ideas, making it easier for readers to understand your message.
• Engagement: Active voice engages readers by emphasizing the doer of the action, making the writing more dynamic and relatable.
• Conciseness: Active voice often results in shorter and more concise sentences, reducing wordiness and keeping the reader's attention.
• Transparency: Active voice is transparent about who is performing the action, eliminating ambiguity and confusion.
• SEO-Friendly: Search engines prefer active voice because it leads to more straightforward and informative content, potentially improving your search engine rankings.
• Effective Communication: Active voice is particularly useful in persuasive writing, as it allows you to clearly state the action and its impact.
• Professionalism: In formal writing, such as business reports or academic papers, active voice conveys professionalism and authority.
• Impactful Verbs: Active voice encourages the use of strong, action-oriented verbs, enhancing the overall impact of your writing.

In summary, using active voice enhances clarity, engagement, and conciseness in your writing while making it more reader-friendly and SEO-effective. It's a valuable tool for effective communication in various contexts.

Are Passive Voice Checkers compatible with various writing styles?

The best Passive Voice Checkers are designed to be versatile tools that can accommodate various writing styles and preferences. Here's why they are compatible:

• Adaptability: Online Passive Voice Checkers are adaptable to different writing styles, including formal, informal, academic, business, creative, and technical writing.
• Customization: Many checkers allow users to customize their settings to align with their specific writing style and preferences. This ensures that the tool provides accurate feedback without imposing a one-size-fits-all approach.
• Language Variety: Online Passive Voice Checkers often support multiple languages, making them suitable for writers who work in languages other than English.
• Genre Flexibility: Whether you're writing a blog post, a research paper, a novel, or a marketing copy, the best Passive Voice Checker can assist in identifying passive voice sentences, maintaining consistency in style.
• Real-Time Feedback: These tools typically offer real-time feedback, which means you can adapt your writing style as you go, ensuring it aligns with your chosen tone and audience.
• Integration: Some checkers can seamlessly integrate with popular word processing software and web browsers, making them accessible and convenient for writers across various platforms.

In conclusion, the best Passive Voice Checkers are versatile and compatible with a wide range of writing styles, offering writers the flexibility to adhere to their unique preferences and produce content that suits their intended audience and purpose.

Can I use a Passive Voice Checker for different types of content?

Absolutely, a Passive Voice Checker free is a versatile tool that can be employed for various types of content, ensuring clarity and readability across the board. Here's how:

• Blogs and Articles: A checker ensures that blog posts and articles are engaging and reader-friendly for bloggers and content creators.
• Academic Writing: In academic papers, where clarity and adherence to formal style are crucial, a checker helps maintain professionalism.
• Business Documents: Whether it's reports, proposals, or business correspondence, using a checker ensures your business documents are concise and effective.
• Marketing Content: Marketers can employ a checker to craft persuasive and engaging marketing copy, making sure their message resonates with the audience.
• Fiction and Creative Writing: A passive voice checker free can help maintain narrative flow and readability even in creative writing.
• Technical Documentation: For technical writers, a checker ensures that complex technical information is presented clearly and comprehensibly.
• Web Content: It is particularly beneficial for web content, as content clarity can impact SEO rankings and reader engagement.
• Non-Native English Writers: Non-native English writers can use a checker to refine their writing in various contexts.

In summary, a Passive Voice Checker free is a versatile tool that can be applied across different types of content, ensuring that your writing remains clear, engaging, and aligned with your specific objectives and audience.

How user-friendly are Passive Voice Checker free tools?

User-friendliness is a key feature of most Passive Voice Checker free tools, making them accessible to writers of all levels of expertise. Here's why they are known for their user-friendliness:

• Intuitive Interface: Active Passive Voice Checker free online typically offer clean and intuitive interfaces that are easy to navigate.
• Simple Copy-Paste Functionality: Most tools allow users to simply copy and paste their text into the checker, requiring minimal effort to get started.
• Real-Time Feedback: Users receive real-time feedback as they write or edit, allowing them to make instant corrections, enhancing their writing skills.
• Highlighting: Passive voice sentences are often highlighted or marked within the text, making it easy for users to spot and address them.
• Suggestion Prompts: Some tools provide suggestions for rewriting passive voice sentences in active voice, further simplifying the editing process.
• Customization Options: Many checkers offer customization options, allowing users to tailor the tool to their writing style and preferences.
• Integration: Integration with popular word processing software or web browsers ensures seamless access and usability.
• Help Resources: Most tools provide helpful resources and documentation, assisting users in understanding how to make the most of the tool.

In summary, Active Passive Voice Checker tools prioritize user-friendliness, ensuring that writers of all backgrounds can easily access and benefit from their features. Their straightforward interfaces and real-time feedback make them valuable companions in the writing and editing process.

Efficiency Matters: Write Smarter, Not Harder

Ever feel like you're drowning in a sea of words, struggling to meet deadlines and maintain your sanity? Writing is essential, but it doesn't have to be an exhausting ordeal. Consider this: according to a survey by Grammarly , professionals spend nearly 16 hours per week writing. That's a significant chunk of your precious time.

Efficiency matters, and writing smarter, not harder, is the key. Are you constantly battling passive voice, which can slow down your writing process and hinder your message's clarity?

Enter the AISEO Active Passive Voice Checker, your efficiency booster. This tool ensures your writing is crisp and active, helping you save time and produce higher-quality content. No more wrestling with convoluted sentences, and no more missed deadlines.

Efficiency isn't just a buzzword; it's a game-changer in today's fast-paced world. Embrace it with AISEO and discover how you can write smarter, not harder. Your time and sanity are worth it!

What are the challenges of transitioning from passive to active voice?

Transitioning from passive to active voice can be a writing challenge, despite its benefits. Here are some common challenges writers may encounter:

• Rephrasing Complexity: Finding the right way to rephrase a passive sentence into active voice can be challenging, especially when dealing with complex or technical subjects.
• Maintaining Clarity: In some cases, passive voice may be used for clarity, and transitioning to active voice might inadvertently introduce ambiguity.
• Consistency: Ensuring consistency in writing style, especially in longer pieces, can be challenging when switching between passive and active voice.
• Tone and Formality: In formal writing, transitioning to active voice can alter the tone, potentially requiring adjustments to maintain professionalism.
• Unfamiliarity: Writers may not be as familiar with active voice constructions, leading to hesitation when attempting the transition.
• Sentence Structure: Passive voice can allow for a different sentence structure, and changing to active voice may require restructuring sentences, which can be time-consuming.
• Edit Flow: When editing existing content, transitioning from passive to active voice may disrupt the overall flow of the text.

Despite these challenges, the benefits of improved clarity, engagement, and readability often make the effort to transition from passive to active voice well worth it for effective communication.

Who can use an Active Passive Voice Checker?

An Active Passive Voice Checker is a versatile tool that can be used by a wide range of individuals and professionals to enhance their writing. Here's a breakdown of who can benefit from using such a tool:

• Writers: Writers of all kinds, including authors, journalists, content creators, and copywriters, can use a Active Passive Voice Checker to improve the clarity and engagement of their writing.
• Students: Students at various educational levels, from high school to university, can utilize this tool to refine their academic papers and essays, earning higher grades.
• Academics and Researchers: Scholars and researchers can employ a Active Passive Voice Checker to maintain professionalism and clarity in their research papers and publications.
• Business Professionals: Professionals in corporate settings, including executives, managers, and employees, can ensure that their business communications are clear and effective.
• Technical Writers: Technical writers who create manuals, guides, or documentation can use the checker to simplify complex technical information.
• Non-Native English Speakers: Individuals for whom English is a second language can benefit from a Passive Voice Essay Checker to enhance their language skills and written communication.
• Web Content Creators: Bloggers, SEO specialists, and web content creators can optimize their online content for readability and search engine rankings.
• Editors and Proofreaders: Even experienced editors and proofreaders can use the tool to expedite the editing process and maintain consistency in writing style.

In summary, a Passive Voice Essay Checker is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to improve their writing by identifying and rectifying passive voice constructions, regardless of their professional background or level of expertise.

What benefits can writers expect from using a Passive Voice Essay Checker?

Using a Passive Voice Sentence Checker offers several benefits for writers, enhancing the quality and impact of their writing:

• Clarity Enhancement: The tool helps writers identify and rectify passive voice sentences, leading to clearer and more direct communication.
• Engagement: Active voice, encouraged by the checker, engages readers by emphasizing the subject performing the action, making the writing more dynamic.
• Time Efficiency: Manually identifying passive voice can be time-consuming, but the tool streamlines the process, saving valuable writing and editing time.
• Consistency: It ensures consistent use of active voice throughout the content, maintaining a cohesive writing style.
• SEO Improvement: Active voice is favored by search engines, so using it with the checker can improve a writer's online content's search engine rankings.
• Professionalism: In business, academic, and formal writing, active voice conveys professionalism and authority, enhancing the writer's credibility.
• Learning Tool: Over time, using the checker can help writers become more conscious of passive voice construction, improving their writing skills.
• Error Reduction: It reduces the risk of overlooking passive voice sentences that might compromise the effectiveness of the writing.

In summary, a Passive Voice Sentence Checker is a valuable writing assistant that not only polishes content but also saves time, ensures consistency, and supports effective communication across various writing contexts.

Can Passive Voice Sentence Checkers help me maintain a consistent writing style?

Yes, Passive Voice Checkers can indeed help you maintain a consistent writing style. Here's how:

• Identification of Passive Voice: These tools actively identify passive voice constructions in your text, ensuring that you recognize and address them.
• Clarity and Directness: By encouraging the use of active voice, the checker promotes a clear and direct writing style, which is easier to maintain consistently.
• Real-Time Feedback: Most checkers provide real-time feedback as you write or edit, allowing you to adapt your writing style instantly.
• Customization Options: Many tools allow users to customize their settings, ensuring that the checker aligns with their preferred writing style and tone.
• Learning Resource: Over time, consistent use of a Passive Voice Checker free online can help writers become more aware of passive voice construction and improve their writing style organically.
• Professionalism: If you're aiming for a formal or professional writing style, the checker can assist in maintaining that tone by favoring active voice.

In summary, Passive Voice Checker free online is a versatile tool that not only help identify and rectify passive voice but also contribute to maintaining a consistent and clear writing style across various contexts and documents.

Passive Voice

What this handout is about.

This handout will help you understand what the passive voice is, why many professors and writing instructors frown upon it, and how you can revise your paper to achieve greater clarity. Some things here may surprise you. We hope this handout will help you to understand the passive voice and allow you to make more informed choices as you write.

So what is the passive voice? First, let’s be clear on what the passive voice isn’t. Below, we’ll list some common myths about the passive voice:

1. Myth: Use of the passive voice constitutes a grammatical error.

Use of the passive voice is not a grammatical error. It’s a stylistic issue that pertains to clarity—that is, there are times when using the passive voice can prevent a reader from understanding what you mean.

2. Myth: Any use of “to be” (in any form) constitutes the passive voice.

The passive voice entails more than just using a being verb. Using “to be” can weaken the impact of your writing, but it is occasionally necessary and does not by itself constitute the passive voice.

3. Myth: The passive voice always avoids the first person; if something is in first person (“I” or “we”) it’s also in the active voice.

On the contrary, you can very easily use the passive voice in the first person. Here’s an example: “I was hit by the dodgeball.”

4. Myth: You should never use the passive voice.

While the passive voice can weaken the clarity of your writing, there are times when the passive voice is OK and even preferable.

5. Myth: I can rely on my grammar checker to catch the passive voice.

See Myth #1. Since the passive voice isn’t a grammar error, it’s not always caught. Typically, grammar checkers catch only a fraction of passive voice usage.

Do any of these misunderstandings sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. That’s why we wrote this handout. It discusses how to recognize the passive voice, when you should avoid it, and when it’s OK.

Defining the passive voice

A passive construction occurs when you make the object of an action into the subject of a sentence. That is, whoever or whatever is performing the action is not the grammatical subject of the sentence. Take a look at this passive rephrasing of a familiar joke:

Why was the road crossed by the chicken?

Who is doing the action in this sentence? The chicken is the one doing the action in this sentence, but the chicken is not in the spot where you would expect the grammatical subject to be. Instead, the road is the grammatical subject. The more familiar phrasing (why did the chicken cross the road?) puts the actor in the subject position, the position of doing something—the chicken (the actor/doer) crosses the road (the object). We use active verbs to represent that “doing,” whether it be crossing roads, proposing ideas, making arguments, or invading houses (more on that shortly).

Once you know what to look for, passive constructions are easy to spot. Look for a form of “to be” (is, are, am, was, were, has been, have been, had been, will be, will have been, being) followed by a past participle. (The past participle is a form of the verb that typically, but not always, ends in “-ed.” Some exceptions to the “-ed” rule are words like “paid” (not “payed”) and “driven.” (not “drived”).

Here’s a sure-fire formula for identifying the passive voice:

form of “to be” + past participle = passive voice

For example:

The metropolis has been scorched by the dragon’s fiery breath.

When her house was invaded, Penelope had to think of ways to delay her remarriage.

Not every sentence that contains a form of “have” or “be” is passive! Forms of the word “have” can do several different things in English. For example, in the sentence “John has to study all afternoon,” “has” is not part of a past-tense verb. It’s a modal verb, like “must,” “can,” or “may”—these verbs tell how necessary it is to do something (compare “I have to study” versus “I may study”). And forms of “be” are not always passive, either—”be” can be the main verb of a sentence that describes a state of being, rather than an action. For example, the sentence “John is a good student” is not passive; “is” is simply describing John’s state of being. The moral of the story: don’t assume that any time you see a form of “have” and a form of “to be” together, you are looking at a passive sentence.

Need more help deciding whether a sentence is passive? Ask yourself whether there is an action going on in the sentence. If so, what is at the front of the sentence? Is it the person or thing that does the action? Or is it the person or thing that has the action done to it? In a passive sentence, the object of the action will be in the subject position at the front of the sentence. As discussed above, the sentence will also contain a form of be and a past participle. If the subject appears at all, it will usually be at the end of the sentence, often in a phrase that starts with “by.” Take a look at this example:

The fish was caught by the seagull.

If we ask ourselves whether there’s an action, the answer is yes: a fish is being caught. If we ask what’s at the front of the sentence, the actor or the object of the action, it’s the object: the fish, unfortunately for it, got caught, and there it is at the front of the sentence. The thing that did the catching—the seagull—is at the end, after “by.” There’s a form of be (was) and a past participle (caught). This sentence is passive.

Let’s briefly look at how to change passive constructions into active ones. You can usually just switch the word order, making the actor and subject one by putting the actor up front:

The dragon has scorched the metropolis with his fiery breath.

After suitors invaded her house, Penelope had to think of ways to delay her remarriage.

To repeat, the key to identifying the passive voice is to look for both a form of “to be” and a past participle, which usually, but not always, ends in “-ed.”

Clarity and meaning

The primary reason why your instructors frown on the passive voice is that they often have to guess what you mean. Sometimes, the confusion is minor. Let’s look again at that sentence from a student’s paper on Homer’s The Odyssey:

Like many passive constructions, this sentence lacks explicit reference to the actor—it doesn’t tell the reader who or what invaded Penelope’s house. The active voice clarifies things:

After suitors invaded Penelope’s house, she had to think of ways to fend them off.

Thus many instructors—the readers making sense of your writing—prefer that you use the active voice. They want you to specify who or what is doing the action. Compare the following two examples from an anthropology paper on a Laotian village to see if you agree.

(passive)  A new system of drug control laws was set up. (By whom?)

(active)  The Lao People’s Revolutionary Party set up a new system of drug control laws.

Here’s another example, from the same paper, that illustrates the lack of precision that can accompany the passive voice:

Gender training was conducted in six villages, thus affecting social relationships.

And a few pages later:

Plus, marketing links were being established.

In both paragraphs, the writer never specifies the actors for those two actions (Who did the gender training? Who established marketing links?). Thus the reader has trouble appreciating the dynamics of these social interactions, which depend upon the actors conducting and establishing these things.

The following example, once again from that paper on The Odyssey, typifies another instance where an instructor might desire more precision and clarity:

Although Penelope shares heroic characteristics with her husband, Odysseus, she is not considered a hero.

Who does not consider Penelope a hero? It’s difficult to tell, but the rest of that paragraph suggests that the student does not consider Penelope a hero (the topic of the paper). The reader might also conceivably think that the student is referring to critics, scholars, or modern readers of The Odyssey. One might argue that the meaning comes through here—the problem is merely stylistic. Yet style affects how your reader understands your argument and content. Awkward or unclear style prevents your reader from appreciating the ideas that are so clear to you when you write. Thus knowing how your reader might react enables you to make more effective choices when you revise. So after you identify instances of the passive, you should consider whether your use of the passive inhibits clear understanding of what you mean.

Summarizing history or literary plots with the passive voice: don’t be a lazy thinker or writer!

With the previous section in mind, you should also know that some instructors proclaim that the passive voice signals sloppy, lazy thinking. These instructors argue that writers who overuse the passive voice have not fully thought through what they are discussing and that this makes for imprecise arguments. Consider these sentences from papers on American history:

The working class was marginalized. African Americans were discriminated against. Women were not treated as equals.

Such sentences lack the precision and connection to context and causes that mark rigorous thinking. The reader learns little about the systems, conditions, human decisions, and contradictions that produced these groups’ experiences of oppression. And so the reader—the instructor—questions the writer’s understanding of these things.

It is especially important to be sure that your thesis statement is clear and precise, so think twice before using the passive voice in your thesis.

In papers where you discuss the work of an author—e.g., a historian or writer of literature—you can also strengthen your writing by not relying on the passive as a crutch when summarizing plots or arguments. Instead of writing:

It is argued that… or  Tom and Huck are portrayed as… or  And then the link between X and Y is made, showing that…

you can heighten the level of your analysis by explicitly connecting an author with these statements:

Anderson argues that… Twain portrays Tom and Huck as… Ishiguro draws a link between X and Y to show that…

By avoiding passive constructions in these situations, you can demonstrate a more thorough understanding of the material you discuss.

Scientific writing

All this advice works for papers in the humanities, you might note—but what about technical or scientific papers, including lab reports? Many instructors recommend or even require the passive voice in such writing. The rationale for using the passive voice in scientific writing is that it achieves “an objective tone”—for example, by avoiding the first person. To consider scientific writing, let’s break it up into two main types: lab reports and writing about a scientific topic or literature.

Lab reports

Although more and more scientific journals accept or even prefer first-person active voice (e.g., “then we sequenced the human genome”), some of your instructors may want you to remove yourself from your lab report by using the passive voice (e.g., “then the human genome was sequenced” rather than “then we sequenced the human genome”). Such advice particularly applies to the section on Materials and Methods, where a procedure “is followed.” (For a fuller discussion on writing lab reports, see our handout on writing lab reports .)

While you might employ the passive voice to retain objectivity, you can still use active constructions in some instances and retain your objective stance. Thus it’s useful to keep in mind the sort of active verbs you might use in lab reports. Examples include: support, indicate, suggest, correspond, challenge, yield, show.

Thus instead of writing:

A number of things are indicated by these results.

you could write:

These results indicate a number of things . or Further analysis showed/suggested/yielded…

Ultimately, you should find out your instructor’s preference regarding your use of the passive in lab reports.

Writing about scientific topics

In some assignments, rather than reporting the results of your own scientific work, you will be writing about the work of other scientists. Such assignments might include literature reviews and research reports on scientific topics. You have two main possible tasks in these assignments: reporting what other people have done (their research or experiments) or indicating general scientific knowledge (the body of knowledge coming out of others’ research). Often the two go together. In both instances, you can easily use active constructions even though you might be tempted by the passive—especially if you’re used to writing your own lab reports in the passive.

You decide: Which of these two examples is clearer?

(passive) Heart disease is considered the leading cause of death in the United States.

or (active)  Research points to heart disease as the leading cause of death in the United States.

Alternatively, you could write this sentence with human actors:

Researchers have concluded that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.

The last two sentences illustrate a relationship that the first one lacks. The first example does not tell who or what leads us to accept this conclusion about heart disease.

Here’s one last example from a report that describes angioplasty. Which sounds better to you?

The balloon is positioned in an area of blockage and is inflated. or The surgeon positions the balloon in an area of blockage and inflates it.

You can improve your scientific writing by relying less on the passive. The advice we’ve given for papers on history or literature equally applies to papers in more “scientific” courses. No matter what field you’re writing in, when you use the passive voice, you risk conveying to your reader a sense of uncertainty and imprecision regarding your writing and thinking. The key is to know when your instructor wants you to use the passive voice. For a more general discussion of writing in the sciences , see our handout.

“Swindles and perversions”

Before we discuss a few instances when the passive might be preferable, we should mention one of the more political uses of the passive: to hide blame or obscure responsibility. You wouldn’t do this, but you can learn how to become a critic of those who exhibit what George Orwell included among the “swindles and perversions” of writing. For example:

Mistakes were made.

The Exxon Company accepts that a few gallons might have been spilled.

By becoming critically aware of how others use language to shape clarity and meaning, you can learn how better to revise your own work. Keep Orwell’s swindles and perversions in mind as you read other writers. Because it’s easy to leave the actor out of passive sentences, some people use the passive voice to avoid mentioning who is responsible for certain actions.

So when is it OK to use the passive?

Sometimes the passive voice is the best choice. Here are a few instances when the passive voice is quite useful:

1. To emphasize an object. Take a look at this example:

One hundred votes are required to pass the bill.

This passive sentence emphasizes the number of votes required. An active version of the sentence (“The bill requires 100 votes to pass”) would put the emphasis on the bill, which may be less dramatic.

2. To de-emphasize an unknown subject/actor. Consider this example:

Over 120 different contaminants have been dumped into the river.

If you don’t know who the actor is—in this case, if you don’t actually know who dumped all of those contaminants in the river—then you may need to write in the passive. But remember, if you do know the actor, and if the clarity and meaning of your writing would benefit from indicating him/her/it/them, then use an active construction. Yet consider the third case.

3. If your readers don’t need to know who’s responsible for the action.

Here’s where your choice can be difficult; some instances are less clear than others. Try to put yourself in your reader’s position to anticipate how they will react to the way you have phrased your thoughts. Here are two examples:

(passive)  Baby Sophia was delivered at 3:30 a.m. yesterday.

and (active)  Dr. Susan Jones delivered baby Sophia at 3:30 a.m. yesterday.

The first sentence might be more appropriate in a birth announcement sent to family and friends—they are not likely to know Dr. Jones and are much more interested in the “object”(the baby) than in the actor (the doctor). A hospital report of yesterday’s events might be more likely to focus on Dr. Jones’ role.

Summary of strategies

• Look for the passive voice: “to be” + a past participle (usually, but not always, ending in “-ed”)
• If you don’t see both components, move on.
• Does the sentence describe an action? If so, where is the actor? Is he/she/it in the grammatical subject position (at the front of the sentence) or in the object position (at the end of the sentence, or missing entirely)?
• Does the sentence end with “by…”? Many passive sentences include the actor at the end of the sentence in a “by” phrase, like “The ball was hit by the player ” or “The shoe was chewed up by the dog .” “By” by itself isn’t a conclusive sign of the passive voice, but it can prompt you to take a closer look.
• Is the doer/actor indicated? Should you indicate him/her/them/it?
• Does it really matter who’s responsible for the action?
• Would your reader ask you to clarify a sentence because of an issue related to your use of the passive?
• Do you use a passive construction in your thesis statement?
• Do you use the passive as a crutch in summarizing a plot or history, or in describing something?
• Do you want to emphasize the object?
• If you decide that your sentence would be clearer in the active voice, switch the sentence around to make the subject and actor one. Put the actor (the one doing the action of the sentence) in front of the verb.

Towards active thinking and writing

We encourage you to keep these tips in mind as you revise. While you may be able to employ this advice as you write your first draft, that’s not necessarily always possible. In writing, clarity often comes when you revise, not on your first try. Don’t worry about the passive if that stress inhibits you in getting your ideas down on paper. But do look for it when you revise. Actively make choices about its proper place in your writing. There is nothing grammatically or otherwise “wrong” about using the passive voice. The key is to recognize when you should, when you shouldn’t, and when your instructor just doesn’t want you to. These choices are yours. We hope this handout helps you to make them.

Works consulted and suggested reading

We consulted these works while writing this handout. This is not a comprehensive list of resources on the handout’s topic, and we encourage you to do your own research to find additional publications. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. For guidance on formatting citations, please see the UNC Libraries citation tutorial . We revise these tips periodically and welcome feedback.

Anson, Chris M., and Robert A. Schwegler. 2010. The Longman Handbook for Writers and Readers , 6th ed. New York: Longman.

Baron, Dennis E. 1989. “The Passive Voice Can Be Your Friend.” In Declining Grammar and Other Essays on the English Vocabulary , 17-22. Urbana, IL: National Council of Teachers.

Hjortshoj, Keith. 2001. The Transition to College Writing . New York: Bedford/St Martin’s.

Lanham, Richard A. 2006. Revising Prose , 5th ed. New York: Pearson Longman.

Orwell, George. 1968. “Politics and the English Language.” In The Collected Essays, Journalism and Letters of George Orwell , edited by Ian Angus and Sonia Orwell, 4: 127-140. New York: Harcourt, Brace, Javanovich.

Rosen, Leonard J., and Laurence Behrens. 2000. The Allyn and Bacon Handbook , 4th ed. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Strunk, William, and E.B. White. 2000. The Elements of Style , 4th ed. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Trimble, John R. 2000. Writing With Style , 2nd ed. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.

Williams, Joseph, and Joseph Bizup. 2017. Style: Lessons in Clarity and Grace , 12th ed. Boston: Pearson.

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Make a Gift

• Link to facebook
• Link to linkedin
• Link to twitter
• Link to youtube
• Writing Tips

Five Passive Voice Checker Tools

3-minute read

• 19th September 2023

The passive voice is perhaps one of the most challenging aspects of writing. Though the passive voice can be useful in some circumstances, using the active voice, if possible, is usually better. But spotting the passive voice in our own writing can be very tricky, even if we understand what passive voice is. So you may want to turn to grammar tools to help you, but which tools are the best? Read on to learn more about five tools for detecting the passive voice.

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Word has a built-in passive voice checker, but you may need to turn it on. To do so:

●  Open the spelling editor panel.

●  Choose “Options.”

●  Check “Passive Voice” in the options.

This feature will highlight instances of the passive voice in your document – an especially helpful asset when you’re proofreading a document .

Sapling is free and easy to use. Simply paste your paragraph in, and the tool will identify which parts are passive. You can also use Sapling’s passive-to-active converter tool to rewrite sentences in the active voice.

Find this useful?

Subscribe to our newsletter and get writing tips from our editors straight to your inbox.

data ⸱ yze specializes in detecting the passive voice in text, but it also has a readability detector. It uses “zombies” to show you who the actor of the sentence is so you can rewrite in the active voice.

Hemingway is an online editor. It checks only for sentence complexity, adverb use, reading level, and passive voice. It uses colors to highlight each of these elements so you can see at a glance where the passive voice is and fix it.

ChatGPT can help with different aspects of editing, including identifying the passive voice and suggesting ways to rewrite it in the active voice. ChatGPT is trained on data from across the internet, meaning its suggestions may not always be accurate.

The Problem With These Apps

Although these apps are great for helping with your writing, you can’t rely on them completely. We put Hemingway and ChatGPT to the test and found that the text needed re-editing after being run through these systems. They often missed issues with clarity and didn’t pick up more complicated passive constructions. If you want more accurate editing, you’d be better off hiring an editor.

Proofed’s team of expert editors can help you remove passive voice constructions from your writing and make it more accurate. If you need help, reach out to us.

Share this article:

Post A New Comment

Got content that needs a quick turnaround? Let us polish your work. Explore our editorial business services.

What is a content editor.

Are you interested in learning more about the role of a content editor and the...

4-minute read

The Benefits of Using an Online Proofreading Service

Proofreading is important to ensure your writing is clear and concise for your readers. Whether...

2-minute read

6 Online AI Presentation Maker Tools

Creating presentations can be time-consuming and frustrating. Trying to construct a visually appealing and informative...

What Is Market Research?

No matter your industry, conducting market research helps you keep up to date with shifting...

8 Press Release Distribution Services for Your Business

In a world where you need to stand out, press releases are key to being...

How to Get a Patent

In the United States, the US Patent and Trademarks Office issues patents. In the United...

Make sure your writing is the best it can be with our expert English proofreading and editing.

Convert Passive Voice To Active Voice With This Free Tool

Tips On Using The Passive Voice Checker

• The maximum amount of words you can paste into the textbook is 200 (this will increase in the future)
• You can press “convert” more than once to get different results. So if you don’t like the look of one active sentence, generate another one.

The tool is still in its early prototype phases so feedback is very welcome at this stage.

What Is The Passive Voice?

Passive voice is a grammatical construction where the subject of the sentence is the recipient of the action, rather than the doer of the action . In other words, the passive voice shifts the focus from the agent or performer of the action to the action itself or the receiver of the action.

To form a passive sentence, we use the auxiliary verb “to be” followed by the past participle of the main verb. For instance, “The cake was baked by the chef” is a passive sentence, where “ the cake “is the receiver of the action (being baked) and “the chef” is the agent or performer of the action .

Here are a few more examples of passive sentences and why they’re considered passive:

• The letter was written by John. (Passive because the subject, “the letter,” is the receiver of the action, and the agent or doer of the action, “John,” comes after the verb.)
• The car was stolen last night. (Passive because the subject, “the car,” is the receiver of the action, and the agent or doer of the action is not specified in the sentence.)
• The report will be submitted by the end of the week. (Passive because the subject, “the report,” is the receiver of the action, and the agent or doer of the action, “the person who will submit it,” is introduced by the preposition “by.”)

In general, passive voice is useful when the emphasis is on the action or when the agent is unknown or unimportant . However, using passive voice too frequently can make writing vague or convoluted, so it’s important to use it judiciously.

In the world of fiction writing, publishers and agents seek works written predominantly in an active voice. So let’s take a look at what that is.

Find Out More About Passive Voice Misuse Here

What Is The Active Voice?

Active voice is another grammatical construction where the subject of the sentence performs the action, rather than receiving it. In other words, the active voice puts the focus on the agent or performer of the action rather than the action itself or the receiver of the action.

To form an active sentence, we use the subject followed by the verb and the object . For instance, “The chef baked the cake” is an active sentence, where “the chef” is the agent or performer of the action (baking) and “the cake” is the receiver of the action.

Here are a few more examples of active sentences and why they are considered active:

• John wrote the letter. (Active because the subject, “John,” performs the action, “wrote,” and the object, “the letter,” receives the action.)
• The thief stole the car last night. (Active because the subject, “the thief,” performs the action, “stole,” and the object, “the car,” receives the action.)
• I will submit the report by the end of the week. (Active because the subject, “I,” performs the action, “will submit,” and the object, “the report,” receives the action.)

In general, active voice is more direct, concise, and engaging than passive voice. It creates a clearer and more dynamic sentence structure.

Active voice is particularly useful when the agent or performer of the action is important or when the emphasis is on the action itself rather than the receiver of the action.

More Examples Of Active Voice Versus Passive Voice

Below, you can find a very handy infographic that offers lots of examples of the active and passive voice.

How Can A Passive Voice Detector Help?

A passive voice detector tool, such as the one above, can be a valuable resource for writers who want to improve their fiction writing . This tool uses algorithms and the latest models of artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze your writing and identify instances where the passive voice is used. However, it doesn’t just highlight the problem sentence, you have the option to convert it to active voice instead.

One of the main benefits of using a passive voice detector tool is that it can help writers to create more engaging and dynamic prose. Fiction writing is all about immersing the reader in the story and creating a sense of tension and drama. Using the active voice, where the subject is performing the action, can create a more immediate and visceral experience for the reader; they can more easily visualize the action unfolding in front of them.

Additionally, using the active voice can help writers to convey a greater sense of agency and control over their characters and their fictional worlds . By emphasizing the actions of the characters, writers can create a more vivid and dynamic sense of the story’s events, helping the reader to become more invested in them and their journeys.

Of course, it’s important to use the passive voice at times, particularly in instances where the agent of the action is not important or needs to be downplayed. However, by using a passive voice detector tool, writers can ensure that they’re using the passive voice intentionally and in a way that serves the story, rather than simply defaulting to it out of habit (which is very easy to do!).

Using The Passive Voice Converter Function

A passive voice converter tool is a valuable tool for writers, particularly those who are struggling to get to grips with passive voice in their fiction writing. The tool above allows you to quickly and easily identify and convert passive voice constructions to active voice, which can help improve the overall clarity, readability, and impact of their writing.

In fiction writing, passive voice constructions can often lead to weaker, less engaging prose. Passive voice can make it difficult for readers to understand the action and who is performing it, which can hinder their ability to engage with the story. Additionally, it can make writing seem distant and detached, which can detract from the emotional impact of the story.

By using a passive voice converter tool, writers can identify and correct these constructions quickly and efficiently. The tool will highlight any passive voice constructions in the text and offer suggestions for how to rephrase the sentence in active voice, providing a more direct and engaging narrative. This can help writers create stronger characters and more engaging storylines, ultimately leading to a more compelling piece of fiction.

And by using this tool regularly, you can develop a better understanding of how passive voice works and how to avoid it in your writing. This can help develop a more natural and engaging writing style, ultimately leading to more polished and effective fiction writing.

Learn More About Writing Prose

If you’d like to learn more about writing prose , check out some of the guides below:

• Check out this guide by the University of North Carolina on the passive voice . You can find examples, tips and tricks on avoiding it.
• This guide by Purdue University also looks at the difference between active and passive voice
• If you’d like to learn more about prose writing and in particular how to use the 5 senses in your writing , head here. You can find lots of great examples, exercises and advice which can help bring your writing alive.

If you have any questions about using this passive voice detector and converter, please don’t hesitate to get in touch .

• Recent Posts

• 5 Tips to Help Your Child Learn and Succeed at Primary School - February 26, 2024
• The Advantages Of Using An AI Essay Typer Alternative - February 14, 2024
• Advice On Getting Help With Your Homework - January 26, 2024

No thanks, close this box

• Services Advisory SEO Only Content Only SEO + Content Video
• Free Training

Product Comparison

What is the Best Passive Voice Checker? Here Are the Winners...

Active vs. passive voice is a confusing topic.

It sounds subtle. But just like the experts from our  MasterClass review  can attest, it’s the details that make all the difference!

A lot of people will argue about the difference, while others think it’s just a waste of time to worry about.

However, it’s important to know that using passive voice makes your writing sound weaker, less confident, and less clear. It’s one of the most common grammatical mistakes.

Thankfully, technology is making the mystery easy to understand. Grammar-checking tools can easily spot passive voice issues and help you edit them out of your content. Our  content marketing agency  produces over 300+ articles/month, so we use these tools on a daily basis.

Let’s look at what passive voice is, and how to replace passive voice with an active voice, and some of the best tools that can help you eradicate it.

Disclosure: These reviews are reader-supported. We might earn a small commission if you purchase something through our site. Learn more

Our Verdict

The best all-around passive voice checker you can use is Grammarly  ( save 20% right now ). A distant runner-up (albeit, cheaper!) is ProWritingAid (who also has a 20% discount offer ).

Grammarly Best All-Around

• Only English
• More expensive ($11.66/mo)

ProWritingAid Best Budget-Friendly

• 24+ hour support response
• Inaccurate plagiarism checker

TABLE OF CONTENTS

How to identify passive voice, prowritingaid, tips on passive voice, grammarly premium walkthrough video.

What is Passive Voice?

If you ask The Chicago Manual of Style , here’s the difference between active and passive voice:

‘The subject of a sentence acts, or is acted on.’ A sentence in which the subject performs the verb’s action is in the active voice. A sentence in which the subject receives the force or action of the verb is in the passive  voice.’

At a more simple level, writing with an active voice makes your writing have more impact and energy.

The active voice is bold. It gets to the point. It’s immediate, direct, and engaging. Active voice sentences are shorter and punchier.

Passive voice sentences are more extended, can sound overly formal, and can be confusing.

Look at these examples:

‘The bear caught the fish’ uses an active voice.

‘The fish was caught by the bear’  uses a passive voice.

The difference is subtle, but you can see how too many passively voiced sentences can get tiring to read.

How Do You Identify Passive Voice?

You will notice that passive voice is still used a lot in legal, science, government, and corporate communication. This technique adds objectivity to a topic. It’s also effectively used in fiction writing, to create a sense of mystery.

When writing a blog post or creating content for the web, it’s easy to fall into a passive voice.

Most writers will tend to place the focus of a sentence at the end, which can cause the voice to be passive instead of active.

Here are two different examples:

• The taxi hit a cyclist (the taxi is the topic, but the cyclist is the focus).
• A cyclist was hit by a taxi (the cyclist is the topic, and the taxi is the focus).

In some cases, a passive voice can also be used when the agent of an action is unknown or unimportant:

• Three bicycles were stolen last night (here the identity of the agent may be unknown).
• A new miracle drug has been discovered (here the identity of the agent may be unimportant).

How do you fix passive voice?

If you want to change a passive voice sentence to an active voice, ask yourself who or what is performing the action.

If a bear catches a fish, the bear is performing the action.

The fish has no action except being caught, so it is passive.

The easiest way to spot passive voice is to the words ‘by’ or ‘was.’

‘The fish was caught by the bear’ is passive.

‘The bear caught the fish is’ active. (Notice the lack of ‘was’ or ‘by’).

This simple distinction helps to shift a passive voice to active. Remove the words ‘was’ or ‘by’ and see the difference in the sentence.

The Best Passive Voice Checkers

You’ll likely catch some of your passive voice mistakes easily. But some will still sneak through into your writing. And, depending on the type of writing style, that might be fine.

If you want to become a stronger writer, there are some excellent passive voice checking tools out there that can help.

Let’s look at five of the best passive voice checker online, and passive voice software and how they stack up.

1. Grammarly

Grammarly has taken the writing software world by storm these past few years. And their brand recognition is well-deserved.

Both a spell checker and grammar checker in one package, Grammarly Premium is an excellent tool to identify passive voice if you are willing to pay for the premium version.

For between $11 – $29 a month, you get access to the full version of Grammarly, which goes into a lot of depth to improve your writing style.

However, if you use the free version (which is a great starting tool for better writing), you will get this notification about extra grammar tools that are available in Grammarly premium.

Once you take the plunge and upgrade Grammarly, you will get a lot of excellent detail about how to remove the passive voice from your writing.

Not only does the explanation help you stop using passive voice, but it can also help to stimulate ideas for how to change to active voice in your content. After a few months using Grammarly, you will undoubtedly become a more precise writer.

Grammarly Premium has a whole slew of useful tools for better grammar, readability, avoiding plagiarism, and more. So if you only need a quick passive voice checking tool, it might be too expensive. However, if you want better writing overall, Grammarly is a great way to get better.

Check out Grammarly Premium

Read the full Grammarly Review

2. ProWritingAid

ProWritingAid is a full-fledged writing tool that gives Grammarly, and other paid writing apps a run for their money.

It’s packed with features that can help you write, edit, and improve your grammar, readability, and to avoid plagiarism in your work.

All that, and it is an excellent tool for checking passive voice mistakes.

As part of the readability tool, the ProWritingAid will give you a score for your writing style.

It will give you suggestions on how to fix the issues and improve your overall score. There is a great deal of insight you can gain from the tool, and it feels more like a writing coach rather than just a grammar checking tool.

Similar to Grammarly, the ProWritingAid tool can be integrated into different types of software to help improve your content. You can use it as a desktop app, a web extension, or even as part of tools like Microsoft Word, Scrivener, and more.

One of the advantages that ProWritingAid offers is the ability to make a one-off purchase of the tool to avoid monthly or yearly fees.

It’s an investment upfront, but if you are serious about removing grammatical errors and passive voice from your writing, it can be well worth the cost.

✅ Check Out ProWritingAid

Read the full ProWritingAid review

Writer is a somewhat unique grammar and style checker. However, calling it a grammar and style assistant would be more appropriate. It has features similar to Grammarly, but it doesn’t contain as powerful a passive voice detector. 

To be honest, some forms of passive voice construction can be missed by many grammar checkers, but all grammar checkers have a tendency to overlook some fragments of sentences or misdetect various verb forms. 

We’re not fully convinced that either assistant knows how to perfectly detect an auxiliary verb in a complex sentence (which is probably why they promote using fewer words to begin with).

Writer is most powerful at delivering similar results over time. It puts less focus on improving the writing quality of a single writer, and instead focuses on making sure all the writers using it collectively within a company have a cohesive, universal style guide to follow. 

If you think that this would make you less likely to stand out from a crowd, you would probably be correct.

Unfortunately, Writer’s options as an essay checker are quite limited. Without a free version and their heavy focus on commercial use for large companies, this assistant is unlikely to be of use detecting errors in punctuation and sentence structure for the average user. Students need not even apply.

• Consistent grammar checker
• Various style options
• Good for brand identity
• No free version
• Only suitable for large-scale companies
• Lacking features for personal use
• $11/month/additional user (more expensive)
• No full-screen available

4. Hemingway

If you’re looking for a free or low-cost version of a grammar checker, then Hemingway might be a right choice.

Billed as ‘like a spellchecker, but for style’ the Hemingway is a free browser-based grammar checker software that helps you identify different ways to refine and tighten up your writing. There is also a very affordable paid version if you want to use it on your desktop.

It does this with simple color highlights for areas that need work: hard-to-read sentences, wording alternatives, adverbs, and of course, passive voice.

Any section that Hemingway highlights in green represent the passive voice in your text.

This simplicity, however, shows one of the limitations of the Hemingway app. The app is excellent at pointing out where you’ve made grammar mistakes, but it doesn’t give you any suggestions about how to fix them.

By contrast, premium services like Grammarly will show you what mistake you made and how to correct it. There is also a small educational section that can sometimes trigger a way to fix the issue.

The Hemingway editor, in contrast, just lets you know that there’s an issue and expects you’ll figure it out on your own.

But, for a free tool (or a one time purchase of $19.99 for the desktop app), you can’t really complain about Hemingway. If you want a tool that can help spot your overuse of the passive voice, then give it a try.

Read the full Hemingway Review

5. WhiteSmoke

Whitesmoke is another grammar and passive voice checker that has several features that work to improve your writing skills.

It is compatible with multiple devices (including Microsoft Office, Android, Mac, and iOS). As another cool feature, it can translate your content into a large number of languages.

Whitesmoke will detect and suggest changes for passive voice, just like the other tools. However, one unique feature of WhiteSmoke is that it includes written and video writing tutorials. These lessons are designed to help make you into a better writer.

Similar to Grammarly and Hemingway, it uses a color-coding system to highlight each type of grammatical error. Red is for spelling mistakes, green is for grammar mistakes, and purple is a writing style issue.

Whitesmoke uses a monthly and annual pricing plan model. The basic tools start at $6.99 per month for the essential plan. The good news is that the essential plan works with all browsers and offers the grammar checker, plagiarism checker, and translator.

If you are looking for a low-cost grammar checking software, Whitesmoke is a good tool to test out.

Read the full WhiteSmoke review

Every grammar checking tool is unique in its own way. The Ginger writing tool doubles as a grammar checking software and a language-translation tool.

It offers over 55 languages (40 can be accessed with the free version), which is an excellent feature for anyone wanting to learn to write well internationally.

Another cool feature of the Ginger software is the Sentence Rephraser tool . It can help with passive voice issues if you aren’t sure exactly how to rewrite into an active voice.

If you are serious about improving your writing, there is the Ginger personal trainer tool , which will test your grammar skills and slowly enhance your ability to write.

Like several other grammar checking tools, Ginger offers both desktop and extensions that can add to your browser.

There is a free version of the Ginger software available, but it does limit some of the functionality, and in particular, the number of languages available. If you only want a passive voice checking tool, this might be all you need.

If you are looking at upgrading, Ginger currently offers a 30% off promotion, which makes the pricing more enticing.

Read the full Ginger review

• No Plagiarism Detector
• Poor Reporting
• Poor Customer Service

While a grammar checker will often detect a passive verb and point it out, it won’t tell you how to change it for the better. 

While most writing assistants have decent capabilities when it comes to correcting punctuation and grammar mistakes, passive voice isn’t counted as a grammar mistake per se, contrary to what the checker itself may suggest. 

Thus, you’ll need to provide a suitable action word on your own and give the reader the written experience you deem fit. Sometimes, that includes leaving the passive voice in and disregarding the AI’s advice.

Passive voice sometimes can’t even be avoided. For example, consider this sentence:

“The book was stolen from the library.”

In the example, the subject isn’t known, so it would be impossible to reorder the sentence to have the object follow the main verb properly. In situations like these, recognizing that the passive voice can be a legitimate way of writing is much better than trying to eradicate any and all examples of the passive form in a sentence.

For academic purposes, passive voice is actively encouraged to maintain objectivity and distance from the subject matter, although some publications are pushing for a change towards a more active voice. 

On the other hand, informational pieces can often sound muddled and boring with too much passive voice, so it can be a good idea to sprinkle active verbs in to help make it read faster and easier.

The English language is particularly difficult to master, and using automated tools might make it more challenging than necessary. 

Trusting your writing capabilities and knowledge will go a long way towards improving your writing ability. For professionals, further learning is always an option and editors are always there to correct any mistakes.

Passive voice is not going to ruin your writing; it just subtracts from its effectiveness.

Think of active voice as a tool to help you sound more definite. Rather than trying to stop using passive voice, try using an active voice more often.

To help you, try out one of the passive voice checker tools, we suggest to notice how often you use passive voice. Then, make an effort as you’re writing to reduce the amount of it.

Good writing is about nuance. Using the active voice is a great way to add it to your pieces.

In life, it’s usually better to be active rather than passive. Let it start with your writing style!

Get long-term ROI.

Get 25% OFF new yearly plans in our Spring Sale

• Features for Creative Writers
• Features for Work
• Features for Higher Education
• Features for Teachers
• Features for Non-Native Speakers
• Learn Blog Grammar Guide Community Events FAQ
• Grammar Guide

Essay Checker: Free Online Paper Corrector

Your Best Chance for an A+ Essay. Try Our Free Essay Checker Below.

Start typing, paste, or use

Get more suggestions to enhance this text and all your future writing

Your suggestions will show once you've entered some text.

Great job! We didn't find any suggestions in your text.

Why Should You Use a Free Essay Checker?

The simple answer? Good grammar is necessary, but it’s not easy. You've already done countless hours of research to write the essay. You don’t want to spend countless hours correcting it, too.

You'll get a better grade

Good grammar or its absence can determine if you get a good grade or a failing one. Impress your lecturer not just with how grammatically sound your writing is, but how clear it is and how it flows.

You'll save time

Essay writing can be a long and tedious process. ProWritingAid's essay checker saves you the hassle by acting as the first line of defense against pesky grammar issues.

You'll become a better writer

Essay writing is a particular skill and one that becomes better with practice. Every time you run your essay through ProWritingAid’s essay corrector, you get to see what your common mistakes are and how to fix them.

Good Writing = Good Grades

It’s already hard to know what to write in an essay. Don’t let grammar mistakes hinder your writing and prevent you from getting a good grade. ProWritingAid’s essay checker will help you write your best essay yet. Since the checker is powered by AI, using it means that grammar errors don’t stand a chance. Give your professors something to look forward to reading with clear, concise, and professional writing.

How Does ProWritingAid’s Essay Checker Work?

Your goal in essay writing is to convey your message as best as possible. ProWritingAid's essay checker is the first step towards doing this.

Get Rid of Spelling Errors

ProWritingAid’s essay checker will show you what it thinks are spelling errors and present you with possible corrections. If a word is flagged and it’s actually spelt correctly you can always choose to ignore the suggestion.

Fix Grammar Errors

Professors aren’t fans of poor grammar because it interrupts your message and makes your essay hard to understand. ProWritingAid will run a grammar check on your paper to ensure that your message is precise and is being communicated the way you intended.

Get Rid of Punctuation Mistakes

A missing period or comma here and there may not seem that serious, but you’ll lose marks for punctuation errors. Run ProWritingAid’s paper checker to use the correct punctuation marks every time and elevate your writing.

Improve Readability

Make sure that in the grand scheme your language is not too complicated. The essay checker's built in readability report will show if your essay is easy or hard to read. It specifically zones in on paragraphs that might be difficult to read so you can review them.

What Else Can the Essay Checker Do?

The editing tool analyzes your text and highlights a variety of key writing issues, such as overused words, incohesive sentence structures, punctuation issues, repeated phrases, and inconsistencies.

You don’t need to drown your essay in words just to meet the word count. ProWritingAid’s essay checker will help to make your words more effective. You'll get to construct your arguments and make sure that every word you use builds towards a meaningful conclusion.

Transition words help to organize your ideas by showing the relationship between them. The essay checker has a built in Transition report that highlights and shows the percentage of transitions used in your essay. Use the results to add transitions where necessary.

An engaging essay has sentences of varying lengths. Don’t bore your professor with long, rambling sentences. The essay checker will show you where you need to break long sentences into shorter sentences, or add more sentence length variation.

Generally, in scholarly writing, with its emphasis on precision and clarity, the active voice is preferred. However, the passive voice is acceptable in some instances. When you run your essay through ProWritingAid’s essay checker, you get feedback on whether you 'r e using the passive or active voice to convey your idea.

There are academic specific power verbs like appraise , investigate , debunk , support , etc., that can add more impact to your argument by giving a more positive and confident tone. The essay checker will check your writing for power verbs and notify you if you have less than three throughout your essay.

It's easy to get attached to certain phrases and use them as crutches in your essays but this gives the impression of boring and repetitive writing. The essay checker will highlight your repeats and suggest contextually relevant alternatives.

Gain access to in-house blog reports on citations, how to write a thesis statement, how to write a conclusion, and more. Venture into a world of resources specific to your academic needs.

What Kinds of Papers Does ProWritingAid Correct?

No matter what you’re writing, ProWritingAid will adapt and show you where your edits are needed most.

• Argumentative
• Descriptive
• Textual Analysis
• Lab reports
• Case studies
• Literature reviews
• Presentations
• Dissertations
• Research papers

Professors and students love using ProWritingAid

If you're an English teacher, you need to take a look at this tool - it reinforces what you're teaching, highlights strengths and weaknesses, and makes it easier to personalize instruction.

Jennifer Gonzales

Only reason I managed to get an A in all my freshmen composition classes.

Chris Layton

Great tool for academic work. Easy to use and the reports and summary evaluation of your documents in several categories is very useful. So much more than spelling and grammar!

Debra Callender

Questions & Answers

1. how do i use the essay checker online tool.

You can either copy and paste your essay in the essay checker field or upload your essay from your computer. Your suggestions will show once you enter text. You’ll see a number of possible grammar and spelling issues. Sign up for free to get unlimited suggestions to improve your writing style, grammar, and sentence structure. Avoid unintentional plagiarism with a premium account.

2. Does the essay checker work with British English and American English?

The essay checker works with both British English and American English. Just choose the one you would like to use and your corrections will reflect this.

3. Is using an essay checker cheating?

No. The essay checker won’t ever write the essay for you. It will point out possible edits and advise you on changes you need to make. You have full autonomy and get to decide which changes to accept.

4. Will the essay checker auto-correct my work?

The essay writing power remains in your hands. You choose which suggestions you want to accept and you can ignore those that you don’t think apply.

5. Is there a student discount?

Students who have an eligible student email address can get 20% off ProWritingAid Premium. Email [email protected] from your student email address to access your discount.

6. Does ProWritingAid have a plagiarism checker?

Yes! ProWritingAid’s plagiarism checker will check your work against over a billion web-pages, published works, and academic papers, so you can be sure of its originality. Find out more about pricing for plagiarism checks here .

A good grade is closer than you think

Drop us a line or let's stay in touch via :

5 Top Passive Voice Checkers You Must Use Use

Writers should avoid the passive voice and tools like Grammarly, ProWritingAid and others can help you do just that. We explain how .

Passive voice is one of the trickiest things a writer has to tackle. Writing in active voice over passive voice makes your writing stronger, but fixing the passive voice in a quick proofread is not always easy. A passive voice checker can help you hone in on errant uses of this verb voice and edit accordingly.

Yet with so many tools out there, how can you find the right one? Will a grammar checker be enough, or do you need a specific tool to check for passive voice?  

Thankfully for writers of the English language, there are many tools, including free ones, that can help you get a handle on passive voice use. By adding these to your writing toolbox, you will be able to make your English writing stronger and more effective.

Understanding Passive Voice vs Active Voice

How to spot passive voice, use passive voice checkers to tighten your writing, 1. prowritingaid, 2. grammarly, 3. hemingway app, 4. whitesmoke, why you can trust us, our testing criteria, the final word on passive voice checkers, why should writers check for passive voice, can a passive voice checker eliminate the need to proofread, grammar resources.

Before discussing passive voice checkers, first, you must understand what passive voice is. Passive voice isn’t always a grammatical error, but it is weak writing.

When you write in passive voice, the subject of the sentence is not the thing that does the action. For instance:

The store was opened by the manager.

In this sentence, the manager opens the “store”, but “store” is the subject of the sentence. To improve readability, it should read:

The manager opened the store.

This sentence is clearer and uses fewer words, making it a better sentence. The subject is the doer of the action, so it is in the active voice.

Passive voice is appropriate sometimes, but overuse of passive voice is a grammatical error. Unfortunately, spell checkers and grammar checkers in Microsoft Word and other popular word processing programs don’t check for this problem. Writers have to learn to spot the passive form of the verb on their own.

Passive voice has the object of the verb as the subject of the sentence. It pairs an auxiliary verb, such as has or was, with the past participle . If you see an auxiliary verb with a past tense verb , chances are you have a passive voice sentence.

Spotting passive voice is sometimes difficult. Helping verbs do not always indicate passive voice. For instance:

She is going to help her sister clean her room.

In this sentence, the verb is future tense, not passive, and the helping verb is necessary to make the sentence clear.

Thankfully, you can find a number of helps out here with grammar checkers that also serve as passive voice checkers. Here are the top options to consider.

ProWritingAid  has a free version and premium version, and both check for passive voice. This passive corrector not only finds and highlights the passive voice usage in your writing, but also gives you one-click corrections. Simply hover over the problematic sentence and click the better choice of the several it offers, and you have fixed your problem.

Grammarly’s free version doesn’t check for passive voice construction, but its paid version excels. If you use passive voice, the tool highlights it and suggests changes. However, you’ll need to write these changes yourself. The paid version of  Grammarly  contains lots of other editing reports too. We found the readability report works nicely when fixing instances of the passive voice.

Grammarly works in real-time via plugins and a desktop app. It scans text boxes on any site you’re working in, giving suggestions and helping with your proofreading. You can also upload content to the Grammarly site to check for grammatical errors and writing style problems if you wish.

Grammarly proved more accurate than the below tools for checking for instances of the passive voice as part of a good self-editing workflow. To find out more, read our Grammarly review .

If you need a free passive voice checker,  Hemingway App  is the best choice, hands-down. It costs nothing and highlights and counts your passive voice sentences. Scan through the document to find all of the highlighted passive voice construction, and change it.

To use the Hemingway App, copy content into the tool on the website. This extra step is worthwhile if you need a free tool, though, so don’t overlook it.  

Hemingway App offers more than just finding instances of passive voice, too. It will give you suggestions to avoid wordy sentences and improve the readability of your piece by improving your writing style .

Read our Hemingway App Vs Grammarly comparison.

WhiteSmoke provides a grammar and passive voice checker that’s compatible with many devices, including Microsoft Word and the rest of the Microsoft Office suite. Not only does it check grammar and reduce passive voice overuse, but it also helps you translate your content into other languages, which helps for international writing.

What makes WhiteSmoke stand out is not just its passive voice checker. It also has video and written lessons to help make you a stronger writer .  

Like many tools, WhiteSmoke highlights grammatical errors with color-coded messages that help you spot the type of mistake you made. For instance, the app highlights spelling mistakes in red while writing style issues have a different color.  However, the app lacks many of Grammarly and ProWritingAid’s reports.

Ginger  is a language-translation tool and grammar-checking program. It has 55 languages in the paid version and 40 in the free version, giving you tools to write for international audiences. However, it’s also a reasonable English language grammar checking tool.

With Ginger’s Sentence Rephraser tool, you can find passive voice construction and get suggestions on how to rewrite it to make the subject the doer of the action. Ginger offers desktop and browser extensions to help improve the quality of your writing automatically. However, it’s not free.

Ginger is also difficult to use and lacks many of the features that ProWritingAid and Grammarly possess.

To find out why, read our Ginger review .

I’ve published several books on writing and contributed to publications like Forbes . I tested these writing tools extensively using blocks of text of approximately 100-200 words in length for a non-fiction article.

I pasted the text into each one of these tools and evaluated the recommendations in terms of accuracy and easy of use. Currently, I use ProWritingAid and Grammarly the most due to speed and accuracy.

I worked with Nicole to consider which of the many writing tools available today check for instances of the passive voice. Nicole writes regularly about grammar for this site. Check out her guide to the passive voice .

As the editor of Become a Writer Today, I’ve written and published dozens of articles for newspapers, magazines and online publications including, Forbes and Lifehacker. I’m also a best-selling non-fiction author, a trained journalist and a copywriter.

We regularly update this roundup of passive voice checkers as the products evolve. We test new features by checking articles, book chapters and blog posts for passive voice issues. These articles and other writing samples range from several hundred to several thousand words in length.

Strong writing uses more active voice than passive voice, and passive voice checkers help you proofread more efficiently to eliminate unwanted passive voice. Combine a passive voice checker with a high-quality grammar checker, and you will be able to tighten up your writing and make it more effective at communicating your message.

In short : use either Grammarly or ProWritingAid.

FAQs About Passive Voice Checkers

Passive voice construction makes writing unclear and wordy. Writers, especially those writing for online audiences, need to have a strong focus on readability. Using a passive voice checker will eliminate wordiness and make writing easier to read.

No, because passive voice checkers and grammar checkers use artificial intelligence to check writing, and that is no substitute for a final proofreading of your document. Use the tools, then use your own proofreading to ensure everything is clear, concise and easy to understand.

Set up vs Setup

Simile Vs Metaphor

Ensure vs Insure

Grammar Terms To Learn

Grammar vs Syntax

What is a Grammar Nazi?

The Difference Between Grammar and Punctuation

Using an AI Grammar Checker

ProWritingAid vs Grammarly

Nicole Harms has been writing professionally since 2006. She specializes in education content and real estate writing but enjoys a wide gamut of topics. Her goal is to connect with the reader in an engaging, but informative way. Her work has been featured on USA Today, and she ghostwrites for many high-profile companies. As a former teacher, she is passionate about both research and grammar, giving her clients the quality they demand in today's online marketing world.

View all posts

Bryan Collins is the owner of Become a Writer Today. He's an author from Ireland who helps writers build authority and earn a living from their creative work. He's also a former Forbes columnist and his work has appeared in publications like Lifehacker and Fast Company.

• Free Passive Voice Checker
• Use of Passive Voice
• 10 Secret Tips to Find Passive Voice

See Our Video

Our Guarantees

Passive Sentence Checker: Use of Passive Voice

Passive voice is a writing style. Majority of the writing experts don’t like to use the passive voice, but sometimes it’s necessary to use the passive voice. A common sentence is an active voice, but when the object is written before the verb and subject is at the end, the sentence becomes a passive voice. Passive voice is usually used when the object is the main focus. However, people use it when the subject is important and overshadow the importance of the subject. Passive voice can also be used when we are writing a general truth. Moreover, in scientific papers, passive voice is commonly used. Commonly people use passive voice in academic papers. The sentence in which passive voice is used, make the position of the subject unclear and we get confused that who is responsible for a particular act. A passive sentence makes it difficult for the reader to understand the meaning. You can get free passive sentence checker online and solve all these problems.

How Online Tool Can Help to Correct Passive Voice in Your Text?

You can find active and passive voice corrector to help you. The online tool can highlight the passive voice sentences and can give you suggestions to correct them. They can provide you options to convert them into active voice. It does not correct them automatically, rather gives you options and suggestions. Sometimes you use passive voice intentionally, in that case, you can keep the voice of your choice. If you want to check your essay, which should be in active voice. You can use essay passive voice checker and get the required corrections.

When Online Tool Can Come in Handy and for Whom?

If you wonder how to correct passive voice in a sentence, you can use an online tool. Online tool come in handy in a number of situations, for instance,

• It checks grammatical errors in your text, so when you have doubts about your grammar, you can use it.
• when you need to send a lot of emails and you want them to be without mistakes.
• When you are confused about a proposition, using this tool can help.
• Punctuation cause real trouble sometimes. This tool can help you to punctuate properly.

These are just the common uses of this tool, you can use it anytime when you are struck with vocabulary and need to have a perfectly written document.

Everyone can use passive voice tool. Students can use to it correct their academic papers, no matter it’s an essay, term paper or dissertation. Business persons can use it for the correction of their official documents. It can be formal letters, emails or manuals. Job seekers can use passive voice editor to their advantage. They can check their resume, letter of recommendation, personal statement and other documents for grammar, punctuation and spelling mistakes. These documents should be perfect in every respect. Very little mistakes can ruin your career. Now a day, a number of people work online and are associated with blogging. They can use passive voice grammar checker to make their content error free. The tool works online as well. If you are replying to a comment or preparing an online post, it can help you to improve your content. Other than these people, active and passive sentence checker is useful for everyone. Researchers, teachers, writers, journalists everyone can use this tool to find out his mistakes, to have a third eye proofreader and to improve his writing skills.

Benefits of Online Tool

When you use free online software to check the passive voice, you can enjoy many other benefits of this tool. For instance,

• It works online, and no downloading is required. You need to have an internet connection only and that is it. It is available for everyone, no matter in which part of the world he lives. There is no limit to use it. Everyone can use it for an unlimited number of times.
• It is not just a free online proofreading and editing tool, it is much more than that. It provides you with the word count, check your grammar and spelling errors and do plagiarism check for you. It is difficult to find so many features in a free checking English grammar tool.
• You can download it as a chrome extension and it can help in your online content creation as well. You can write your social media posts and reply to your emails, it will be there for you as your writing assistant.

Simplicity and Accessibility

Passive sentence checker is very simple to use and easily accessible to everyone. You can use it in different ways, whatever you find appropriate.

• You can visit the website and use it directly. Copy your text and paste it in the given space. It will do all the service for you within no time. It will highlight your spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, typos, passive voice sentences, and confusing words.
• You can download the extension as the part of your browser and it will help you with your online content.
• You can download it on your windows and use it whenever you need.
• An app is also available for smartphone users, who want to write without mistake.

You can access the tool the way you like. The features are the same no matter, how you use it.

Here is our free passive sentence checker online. Use it and experience the difference it can make!

Comments are closed.

• How Much Is Too Much? Avoid Passive Voice with Passive Voice Corrector Online
• Write in Active Voice with Active vs Passive Voice Finder
• 10 Secret Tips to Find Passive Voice with Passive Voice Detector Free
• Master 6 Persuasive Writing Techniques with Active or Passive Sentences Checker

Cookies are used on this website to improve your user experience

• Writing Home
• Writing Advice Home

Passive Voice: When to Use It and When to Avoid It

• Printable PDF Version
• Fair-Use Policy

What is passive voice?

In English, all sentences are in either “active” or “passive” voice:

active: Werner Heisenberg formulated the uncertainty principle in 1927. passive: The uncertainty principle was formulated by Werner Heisenberg in 1927.

In an active sentence, the person or thing responsible for the action in the sentence comes first. In a passive sentence, the person or thing acted on comes first, and the actor is added at the end, introduced with the preposition “by.” The passive form of the verb is signaled by a form of “to be”: in the sentence above, “was formulated” is in passive voice while “formulated” is in active.

In a passive sentence, we often omit the actor completely:

The uncertainty principle was formulated in 1927.

When do I use passive voice?

In some sentences, passive voice can be perfectly acceptable. You might use it in the following cases:

The cave paintings of Lascaux were made in the Upper Old Stone Age. [We don’t know who made them.]

An experimental solar power plant will be built in the Australian desert. [We are not interested in who is building it.]

Mistakes were made. [Common in bureaucratic writing!]

Rules are made to be broken. [By whomever, whenever.]

Insulin was first discovered in 1921 by researchers at the University of Toronto. It is still the only treatment available for diabetes.

The sodium hydroxide was dissolved in water. This solution was then titrated with hydrochloric acid.

In these sentences you can count on your reader to know that you are the one who did the dissolving and the titrating. The passive voice places the emphasis on your experiment rather than on you.

Note: Over the past several years, there has been a movement within many science disciplines away from passive voice. Scientists often now prefer active voice in most parts of their published reports, even occasionally using the subject “we” in the Materials and Methods section. Check with your instructor or TA whether you can use the first person “I” or “we” in your lab reports to help avoid the passive.

When should I avoid passive voice?

Passive sentences can get you into trouble in academic writing because they can be vague about who is responsible for the action:

Both Othello and Iago desire Desdemona. She is courted. [Who courts Desdemona? Othello? Iago? Both of them?]

Academic writing often focuses on differences between the ideas of different researchers, or between your own ideas and those of the researchers you are discussing. Too many passive sentences can create confusion:

Research has been done to discredit this theory. [Who did the research? You? Your professor? Another author?]

Some students use passive sentences to hide holes in their research:

The telephone was invented in the nineteenth century. [I couldn’t find out who invented the telephone!]

Finally, passive sentences often sound wordy and indirect. They can make the reader work unnecessarily hard. And since they are usually longer than active sentences, passive sentences take up precious room in your paper:

Since the car was being driven by Michael at the time of the accident, the damages should be paid for by him.

Weeding out passive sentences

If you now use a lot of passive sentences, you may not be able to catch all of the problematic cases in your first draft. But you can still go back through your essay hunting specifically for passive sentences. At first, you may want to ask for help from a writing instructor. The grammar checker in your word processor can help spot passive sentences, though grammar checkers should always be used with extreme caution since they can easily mislead you. To spot passive sentences, look for a form of the verb to be in your sentence, with the actor either missing or introduced after the verb using the word “by”:

Poland was invaded in 1939, thus initiating the Second World War. Genetic information is encoded by DNA. The possibility of cold fusion has been examined for many years.

Try turning each passive sentence you find into an active one. Start your new sentence with the actor. Sometimes you may find that need to do some extra research or thinking to figure out who the actor should be! You will likely find that your new sentence is stronger, shorter, and more precise:

Germany invaded Poland in 1939, thus initiating the Second World War. DNA encodes genetic information. Physicists have examined the possibility of cold fusion for many years.

Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

More about Passive Voice

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

This handout will explain the difference between active and passive voice in writing. It gives examples of both, and shows how to turn a passive sentence into an active one. Also, it explains how to decide when to choose passive voice instead of active.

In a sentence using passive voice , the subject is acted upon; he or she receives the action expressed by the verb. The agent performing the action may appear in a "by the..." phrase or may be omitted.

The dog is acting upon the sentence subject (the boy), meaning it uses the passive voice.

This example sentence includes the passive voice because the subject (research) is being acted upon (presented) by another person (Pooja).

This is an example of the passive voice.

The subject of the passive voice sentence performs the action expressed in the verb in this example.

Reasons to Avoid Passive Voice

Sometimes the use of passive voice can create awkward sentences, as in the last example above. Also, overuse of passive voice throughout an essay can cause your prose to seem flat and uninteresting. In scientific writing, however, passive voice is more readily accepted since using it allows one to write without using personal pronouns or the names of particular researchers as the subjects of sentences (see the third example above). This practice helps to create the appearance of an objective, fact-based discourse because writers can present research and conclusions without attributing them to particular agents. Instead, the writing appears to convey information that is not limited or biased by individual perspectives or personal interests.

Recognizing Passive Voice

You can recognize passive-voice expressions because the verb phrase will always include a form of be, such as am, is, was, were, are, or been . The presence of a be-verb, however, does not necessarily mean that the sentence is in passive voice. Another way to recognize passive-voice sentences is that they may include a "by the..." phrase after the verb; the agent performing the action, if named, is the object of the preposition in this phrase.

Helpful Hint

You can recognize passive voice because the verb phrase will include a form of be (was, am, are, been, is). Don't assume that just because there is a form of 'be' that the sentence is passive, however. Sometimes a prepositional phrase like "by the" in the sentences above indicates that the action is performed on the subject, and that the sentence is passive.

Active-Passive Voice Converter

Boost your SEO and communicate more clearly by switching between active and passive voices seamlessly. Enhances readability and improve quality in a matter of seconds.

Instructions

1. Enter the existing text in the designated area.

2. Choose the desired output: active or passive voice.

3. [Optional] Select output length from the drop-down menu.

4. Click "Change Voice"

5. Paste the generated copy into a document or rewrite your copy using our paraphrasing tool.

💡Pro Tip: Break down complex sentences into simpler ones before converting voice.

What is Active and Passive Voice?

Active and passive voice are two different ways of constructing a sentence. The active voice focuses on the subject of the sentence, who is taking direct action. It provides clear, straightforward sentences where the agent of action is easily identifiable, making it a favored choice in most writing styles.

The passive voice shifts the focal point to the recipient of the action. The subject becomes secondary to the action itself, thus presenting a more impartial narrative. It is extensively used in scientific and formal writing where the primary focus is the action, not the doer.

How to Identify Active and Passive Voice?

Active Voice: In active voice, the subject performs the action. It's direct and concise.

Example: "The chef (subject) prepared (action) a delicious meal."

Passive Voice: In passive voice, the subject receives the action. It's indirect and often used when the doer of the action is less important.

Example: "A delicious meal (subject) was prepared (action) by the chef."

Advanced Tip: To identify passive voice, look for forms of "to be" (e.g., was, were) followed by the past participle (e.g., prepared). In active voice, the subject acts on the object, making it easier to spot.

How to Convert Sentences From Active Voice to Passive Voice

Step 1: Identification of Subject, Object, and Verb

A sentence usually comprises the doer (subject), the action (verb), and the receiver (object). In "John reads a book," 'John' is the subject, 'reads' is the verb, and 'a book' is the object. Recognizing these essential components of a sentence is the first step to getting your transformations right.

Step 2: Reposition the Subject-Object Placement

You need to reverse the subject's and object's roles to convert an active voice sentence to passive voice. That means the object becomes the sentence's new subject, and the subject becomes a part of the sentence after the verb.

Taking the same example, the sentence changes to "The book is read by John."

Step 3: Alter Verb Form

The verb in a passive voice sentence typically involves a form of 'be' (is, am, are, was, were) followed by a past participle. So, 'reads' in active voice changes to 'is read' in passive voice.

Step 4: Include Preposition

When the original subject is included in the passive sentence, it is usually introduced by a preposition like 'by'. For example, 'by John' in our previous illustration. However, if the focus of your sentence is the action rather than the doer, you can omit this prepositional phrase.

To recap, the original sentence "John reads a book." is coverted to "The book is read by John" in passive voice.

When to Use A Sentence Voice Changer?

Use passive to active voice sentence converter when:.

1. You want to emphasize the action itself rather than the doer.

2. The doer of the action is unknown or unimportant.

3. Keeping the focus consistent throughout a series of sentences.

4. Avoid putting responsibility on a specific person or group.

5. To sound objective, scientific, technical, or logical.

Passive to Active Voice Example

Passive Voice: "The cake was baked by John."

Active Voice: "John baked the cake."

In the passive voice sentence, the subject (the cake) is acted upon by the verb. The primary attention is on the action done to the subject. In the active voice sentence, the subject (John) is performing the action of the verb. The primary attention shifts to who is doing the action.

Use Active to Passive Voice Sentence Converter When:

1. You want to emphasize the doer of the action.

2. Writing clear and concise instructions.

3. Avoiding ambiguity.

4. Writing non-scientific content.

Active to Passive Voice Example

Active Voice: "John ate the apple."

Passive Voice: "The apple was eaten by John."

In the active voice sentence, the subject (John) is the one doing the action (eating). In the passive voice sentence, the subject (The apple) is the one being acted upon, and the actor (John) is mentioned at the end of the sentence.

Who Benefits From Converting Sentence Voice?

Converting sentences between active and passive voice benefits a wide array of individuals.

1. Writers, editors, linguists, and students studying language or literature can enhance their craft and comprehension.

2. Professionals in marketing or PR sectors can critically analyze text, heightening their ability to produce persuasive content.

3. SEO specialists can optimize content, making it more engaging and search-engine friendly.

How to Make the Most of Active Passive Sentence Voice Changer?

Start by understanding the power of structure in your sentence. Don't merely convert your text; use this tool as an opportunity to refine your content, enriching your writing with diversity in sentence formation.

Apply variety by alternating between active and passive voices, enhancing your writing style and engaging your readers more effectively. Modify the sentence length according to your document needs, whether brief sentences for a swift read or lengthy, descriptive ones for detailed insights.

Convert Sentence Voice & More With Content AI!

You already know how to use our free sentence voice converter tool. But with Content AI, you can do so much more.

Our powerful tool is designed to help you generate and optimize quality copy that ranks high on SERP. Perform keyword research, gain competitor insights, and the projected scoring to streamline your content production process.

Convert Sentence Voice Easily With Content AI

Enhance & diversify your content at scale with a unique sentence voice converter

Start your 2-week free trial of Content AI to write, optimize & rank with ease & speed. Use all free AI tools with each other efficiently. Get started now - no credit card required!

Sentence Voice Changer FAQs

Is an ai sentence voice converter reliable.

Our AI sentence voice converter is highly reliable, guaranteeing consistent and accurate results for your writing needs. The tool is trained on massive datasets of text and code, which allows them to accurately identify and convert sentences between active and passive voice.

Is the copy generated plagiarism-free?

The content produced by our sentence voice converter tool is entirely plagiarism-free, ensuring your originality and peace of mind. It uses a variety of techniques to ensure that the output is unique.

Should you use active voice or passive voice in SEO & content marketing?

You should predominantly use active voice in SEO and content marketing as it makes your writing clearer, more direct, and easier to understand. However, passive voice can be used sparingly for variation or when the focus is on the action rather than the actor.

Learn more about SEO & Content Marketing

Content optimization guide.

Learn how to optimize content like landing pages, B2B blogs, buying guides, and e-commerce websites.

Read Now >

RankBrain Algorithm Explained

Learn how Google's RankBrain affects your SEO strategy.

User Experience SEO Guide

Boost SERP rankings by optimizing your website's user experience.

* Please share an active email address as we will use it to contact you.

Your request has been received.

The quattr team  will contact you shortly..

Passive Voice Checker in Word: Your 2024 Guide to Mastery

Looking to polish up your writing in Word by avoiding the passive voice? The Passive Voice Checker in Word can help you do just that. It’s a handy tool that highlights sentences written in passive voice, prompting you to rephrase them in active voice for clearer, more engaging writing. Ready to learn how to use it? Let’s get started!

Step by Step Tutorial: Using the Passive Voice Checker in Word

Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what you’ll achieve by following them. The Passive Voice Checker is a feature in Word that will underline passive sentences with a blue line. This feature is part of Word’s Proofing tools, which help you refine your writing style.

Step 1: Open the Word document you want to check

Open the document you’d like to review. Make sure it’s the one you want to work on, as the Passive Voice Checker will review the entire document.

Step 2: Click on the ‘Review’ tab

At the top of the Word window, click on the ‘Review’ tab. This will bring up a series of options related to document proofing and commenting.

Step 3: Select ‘Language’ then ‘Language Preferences’

In the ‘Language’ section of the ‘Review’ tab, click on ‘Language’ again, and then select ‘Language Preferences’ from the dropdown menu. This will take you to the language settings of Word.

Step 4: Go to the ‘Proofing’ tab

In the Word Options dialog box that appears, click on the ‘Proofing’ tab. This tab contains all the settings related to spelling and grammar checks.

Step 5: Check the box for ‘Check grammar with spelling’

Make sure the checkbox for ‘Check grammar with spelling’ is ticked. This option needs to be on for the Passive Voice Checker to work.

Step 6: Click on ‘Settings’ next to ‘Writing Style’

Still in the ‘Proofing’ tab, next to ‘Writing Style’, click on ‘Settings’. This will allow you to customize the grammar checks.

Step 7: Scroll down to ‘Style’ and check ‘Passive sentences’

In the Grammar Settings dialog box, scroll down to the ‘Style’ section. Make sure the box for ‘Passive sentences’ is checked. This activates the Passive Voice Checker.

Step 8: Click ‘OK’ and return to your document

After making sure the ‘Passive sentences’ option is checked, click ‘OK’ to close the Grammar Settings dialog box, then click ‘OK’ again in the Word Options dialog box to return to your document.

Once you’ve completed these steps, Word will underline passive sentences in blue. You can then revise these sentences to be more active, making your writing clearer and more direct.

Tips for Using the Passive Voice Checker in Word

• Make sure your Word software is updated for the best performance of the Passive Voice Checker.
• Remember that not all passive sentences need to be changed; sometimes, passive voice is appropriate.
• Use the Passive Voice Checker as a guide, not a strict rule; always consider the context of your writing.
• Review the suggestions from the Passive Voice Checker one by one; don’t accept all changes blindly.
• Consider reading up on the difference between active and passive voice to better understand the suggestions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is passive voice.

Passive voice occurs when the subject of the sentence is acted upon rather than doing the acting. For example, “The ball was thrown by John” is passive, while “John threw the ball” is active.

Why should I avoid passive voice?

While passive voice isn’t grammatically incorrect, it’s often less direct and less engaging than active voice. It can also make your writing less clear.

Can I use the Passive Voice Checker on Word for Mac?

Yes, the Passive Voice Checker is available on Word for Mac as well. The steps to access it are similar to those for Word on Windows.

Does the Passive Voice Checker work in other languages?

The Passive Voice Checker in Word primarily works for English. However, Word offers proofing tools for some other languages, which may include passive voice checks.

Can the Passive Voice Checker identify all passive sentences correctly?

No tool is perfect, and the Passive Voice Checker might not catch every passive sentence. It’s essential to review its suggestions and apply your judgment.

• Open the document in Word.
• Click on ‘Review’.
• Select ‘Language’, then ‘Language Preferences’.
• Go to ‘Proofing’.
• Check ‘Check grammar with spelling’.
• Click ‘Settings’ next to ‘Writing Style’.
• Check ‘Passive sentences’.
• Click ‘OK’ and return to the document.

In conclusion, the Passive Voice Checker in Word is a fantastic tool for enhancing your writing by encouraging more active language. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can effectively utilize this feature to make your writing more dynamic and engaging. Remember, while passive voice has its place, active voice often makes your points clearer and your sentences more impactful.

Moreover, this tool is not just for professional writers or students; anyone who writes in Word can benefit from understanding the difference between active and passive voice. So, the next time you’re drafting a report, essay, or even an email, give the Passive Voice Checker a try. It might just take your writing to the next level. And who knows? With practice, you might find yourself naturally writing in active voice, making the checker a trusty guide rather than a necessity. Happy writing!

Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.

His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Related Posts

• How to Change Google Docs Language
• How Do I Do a Grammar Check on Word 2010? Mastering the Tools
• How to Enable Grammar Check in Powerpoint 2016: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Change the Language on an iPhone 15: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Send Voice Message on iPhone 15: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Turn On Automatic Spell Check in Word 2013: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Turn Off Voice Control on an iPhone 11: A Step-by-Step Guide
• iOS 17: How to Change Siri Voice on iPhone – A Step-by-Step Guide
• How Do You Turn Off Spell Check in Word 2019: A Step-by-Step Guide
• Google Docs Turn Off Autocorrect (A Simple 5 Step Guide)
• How to Add Two Spaces After Period in Word 2013: Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Delete a Voice Memo on an iPhone 14: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Voice Record on iPhone 14: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Get Character Count in Word for Office 365
• How to Count Characters in Microsoft Word 2013: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Not Print Comments in Word (An Easy 5 Step Guide)
• How to Stop Underlining Spelling Mistakes in Google Docs: A Guide
• How to Make Columns in Word Office 365
• How to Change the Voice in Microsoft Word for Read Aloud Feature
• How to Do a Word Count in Microsoft Word for Office 365 (An Easy 4 Step Guide)

Get Our Free Newsletter

How-to guides and tech deals

You may opt out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy