This document discusses the difference between active and passive voice in sentences. It notes that in active sentences, the subject performs the action of the verb, while in passive sentences, the subject receives the action of the verb. The verb in a passive sentence consists of a form of "to be" plus the past participle of the main verb. Examples are provided to illustrate active versus passive voice, including one incorrect sentence that should have used the passive voice. Readers are advised to check if the subject is performing or receiving the action of the verb to determine whether active or passive voice should be used.

1. Find the error TOEFL questions
LEARNING SPACE
TOPIC: Understanding passive/ active meanings
Sometimes it may appear to be a bit confusing as to whether a sentence is active or
passive. But if you know the basics about passive sentences, this should help.
Remember, in active sentences, the subject does the action of the verb. In passive
sentences, it’s the contrary. The subject does not do the action of the verb.
_________________________________________________________________________
NOTE THE FOLLOWING
In the passive voice:
1) The subject does not do the action, but it receives the action.
2) The verb consists of two important parts: the verb “to be” (in any tense); & the
past participle of the main verb.
3) Whenever a sentence uses the phrase “by somebody” or “by something,” it is a
passive voice sentence.
OBSERVE:
1. We mailed the package at the post office.
2. The letter was mailed by us today before noon.
3. The letter was mailed today before noon.
4. The letter mailed today before noon.
In sentence 1, the subject is “We.” The verb is “mailed.” Observe that the subject did
something (mailed the package). There is action here done by the subject “We.” So this
sentence is ACTIVE.
In sentence 2, the subject is “The letter.” The verb is “was mailed.” It consists of “to be”
+ the past participle (mailed). Observe by whom – “by us.” This is a passive sentence.
In sentence 3, the subject is “The letter.” The verb “was mailed.” The sentence didn’t
say “by someone,” but it is a passive sentence because “The letter,” which is the subject,
didn’t do the action of the verb.
In sentence 4, the subject is “The letter.” The verb is “mailed.” Now, since the subject
wasn’t doing any mailing, because “a letter” cannot mail itself, then the verb should be in
the passive. This means, that the verb should include the verb “to be” + the past
participle “mailed.” For example, “was mailed.” So the sentence is incorrect.
_____________
When reading the sentences, always check to see if the subject is doing or not doing the
action of the verb. That way, you’d determine whether the verb should be a passive verb
(verb “to be” + a past participle) or an active verb.