The document discusses the use of passive voice in translation between English and Spanish. It notes that while some English passive voice sentences can be directly translated into Spanish passive voice, not all can. Specifically, it provides the example of how "Congress was sent a new law" would be translated into Spanish using the active rather than passive voice. The document also notes that some Spanish verbs are simply not used in the passive form. It concludes by stating that passive voice is most commonly used in instructions, orders and signs.

1. PASSIVE VOICE IN
TRANSLATION

2. PASSIVE VOICE
• Perhaps the translation of passive voice is
actually more difficult, and therefore requires a
more accomplished translator, who is less
prone to make errors.
• Misunderstandings in journalism and commerce
are often very costly, and whatever can be done
to avoid them is always wise.

3. Passive Voice vs. Active Voice in
Translation
• Sometimes translating Passive Sentences in English
into Passive Sentences in Spanish is not difficult:
• E.g., Former President Portillo was arrested in
Izabal.
• Translation: El expresidente Portillo fue arrestado
en Izabal.

4. But…
• Not all English sentences using the passive voice
can be translated into Spanish the same way:
• For example, “Congress was sent a new law.”
• Translates into: “El Congreso fue enviado una
nueva ley”

5. Also…
• Spanish has quite a few verbs that simply
aren't used in the passive form.
• Although you may see them in journalistic
writing (or in items translated from English).
•

6. Where is Passive used the most?
Instructions /Orders / Signs

7. Where is Passive used the most?
Instructions /Orders / Signs

8. Where is Passive used the most?
Instructions /Orders / Signs

10. Work with
a partner

11. Answer Key

12. Answer Key
http://users.ipfw.edu/jehle/COURSES/s210/PASSIV2A.HTM

13. Don’t forget that there’s
ALWAYS room for
Improvement
Particularly in translation!