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passive

Pronunciation: [ˈpæsɪv]

Word

Learn how to use passive in a sentence: 9 audio examples across 3 meanings.

Context: “grammar”

(adjective) describes a type of sentence where the subject receives the action instead of doing it. In passive sentences, the focus is more on the action itself rather than who performed it.

Example

The cake was baked by my mom.

Example

My mom did not bake the cake; it was made by a bakery.

Example

Was the cake baked by my mom or someone else?

Context: “behavior”

(adjective) refers to someone who does not take action or is not very involved, instead letting things happen to them. This is like when a person waits for things to happen rather than trying to change them.

Example

She took a passive approach to the project, allowing others to lead.

Example

He was not passive at all; he actively tried to make improvements.

Example

Do you prefer being passive in group activities, or do you like to take charge?

Context: “behavior”

(noun) refers to the quality or state of being inactive or not taking action. It's when someone doesn’t do much or allows others to decide for them.

Example

His passive made it easy for others to step up.

Example

Her active participation contradicted his passive.

Example

Can passive behavior sometimes lead to missed opportunities?

How to pronounce passive

Pronunciation: [ˈpæsɪv]

Listen and repeat as many times as you need.

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