When someone is passive, it means they let things happen to them. They don't try to change anything or make decisions. They just accept what others do.
For example, if a child is passive, they might let their friends choose all the games they play. They don't say what they want to do.
In grammar, we use passive when the person or thing doing the action is not the main focus. For example, instead of saying 'John ate the apple,' which is active, you could say 'The apple was eaten by John.' Here, 'the apple' is passive because it receives the action.
So, passive means not active, either in how someone behaves or in how a sentence is built.
When someone is passive, it means they let things happen to them without trying to change anything. They don't take action or speak up for themselves very much. For example, if a group of friends is deciding what to eat, a passive person might just agree with whatever everyone else wants, even if they have a different idea. In grammar, a passive sentence is when the thing receiving the action is the most important. For instance, instead of saying "The boy kicked the ball," you might say "The ball was kicked by the boy."
When someone is passive, it means they let things happen to them instead of taking action themselves. They might accept what others decide without saying much or trying to change anything. For example, if your friends always choose the movie and you just go along with it, you are being passive about the movie choice.
In grammar, the passive voice is when the subject of a sentence receives the action. For instance, in 'The ball was hit by the boy,' 'the ball' is passive because it's getting hit. It's different from 'The boy hit the ball,' where 'the boy' is actively doing the hitting.
When we describe someone as passive, it means they tend to let things happen to them without trying to change or influence the situation. They often accept what others decide or do without offering resistance or actively participating. For instance, a passive person might agree to plans they don't like just to avoid conflict. In grammar, the passive voice is when the subject of a sentence receives the action, such as in "The ball was hit by the boy." This word is important for understanding both human behavior and sentence structure.
When we describe someone as passive, it means they tend to let events unfold or accept the actions of others without offering opposition or involvement. This can imply a lack of initiative or a tendency to be compliant. In a grammatical context, the passive voice is a sentence structure where the subject receives the action of the verb, rather than performing it. For example, in 'The ball was hit by the boy,' 'the ball' is the subject and it is receiving the action, making it a passive construction.
§ Understanding 'Passive'
The word 'passive' is a versatile adjective with two primary meanings that are quite distinct but share a core idea of non-action or non-resistance. It's classified as a B2 level word on the CEFR scale, meaning it's a useful term for intermediate English speakers to understand and utilize in various contexts.
- DEFINITION
- Describing someone who allows things to happen or accepts what others do without resistance or participation. It is also used in grammar to describe a sentence structure where the subject is the recipient of the action rather than the performer.
§ 'Passive' in Everyday Behavior
When describing a person, 'passive' refers to an individual who tends to accept situations or the actions of others without offering resistance, expressing opinions, or taking initiative. This can manifest in several ways:
- Lack of initiative: A passive person might wait for others to make decisions or take the lead.
- Acceptance of circumstances: They may not actively try to change things they dislike, preferring to go along with the flow.
- Non-confrontational: They often avoid arguments or disagreements, even when they have a differing opinion.
- Submissive behavior: In some contexts, being passive can imply a willingness to submit to the will of others.
People might use 'passive' to describe someone when they observe these behaviors. For example, in a group project, if one member consistently waits for others to assign tasks rather than volunteering, they might be described as passive. In a social setting, if someone rarely contributes to conversations or allows others to dominate, they could also be seen as passive. It's important to note that while 'passive' can sometimes have a negative connotation (suggesting a lack of assertiveness or engagement), it's not always negative. Sometimes, a passive approach can be seen as adaptable or easygoing.
She took a rather passive role in the discussion, preferring to listen rather than speak.
His passive acceptance of the unfair rules frustrated his teammates.
§ 'Passive' in Grammar: The Passive Voice
In grammar, 'passive' refers to a specific sentence structure known as the 'passive voice.' In a passive voice sentence, the subject of the sentence is the recipient of the action, rather than the performer of the action. This is in contrast to the 'active voice,' where the subject performs the action. Understanding the difference is crucial for clear and effective communication.
- DEFINITION
- In grammar, a sentence structure where the subject is the recipient of the action rather than the performer.
Here's a breakdown of how the passive voice works:
- Active Voice Structure: Subject + Verb + Object (e.g., 'The dog chased the ball.')
- Passive Voice Structure: Object (becomes new subject) + Form of 'to be' + Past Participle of Verb + (by + original subject - often omitted) (e.g., 'The ball was chased by the dog.')
People use the passive voice for several reasons:
- When the performer of the action is unknown or unimportant: If you don't know who broke the window, you might say, 'The window was broken.'
- To emphasize the action or the recipient of the action: If you want to highlight the ball rather than the dog, 'The ball was chased' puts the focus there.
- To sound more formal or objective: This is common in scientific writing or official reports where the focus is on facts or processes rather than the agents performing them.
- To avoid assigning blame: 'Mistakes were made' is often used to acknowledge an error without pointing fingers.
The report was written by the entire team (passive voice).
The ancient ruins were discovered last century.
§ Connecting the Meanings
Despite their different applications, both meanings of 'passive' share a common thread: a lack of active engagement or direct initiation. A passive person doesn't actively participate or resist, much like the subject in a passive sentence doesn't actively perform the verb. Recognizing this underlying concept can help you remember and apply the word correctly in various situations.
§ Understanding the Nuances of 'Passive'
The word 'passive' can be a bit tricky because it has several related but distinct meanings, leading to common errors in usage. While often associated with a lack of action or resistance, its grammatical application, particularly, can cause confusion. Let's delve into the most frequent mistakes people make and how to avoid them.
§ Mistake 1: Confusing 'Passive' with 'Shy' or 'Introverted'
One common misconception is to equate 'passive' with personality traits like shyness or introversion. While a passive person might also be shy, the terms are not interchangeable. 'Passive' describes a behavioral pattern of not taking initiative or resisting, whereas 'shy' refers to discomfort in social situations, and 'introverted' describes a preference for less social stimulation.
- DEFINITION
- Describing someone who allows things to happen or accepts what others do without resistance or participation.
She is quite passive in meetings, rarely offering an opinion.
§ Mistake 2: Overusing the Passive Voice in Writing
In grammar, the 'passive voice' is a sentence structure where the subject receives the action. While it has its uses, overuse can make writing sound weak, unclear, or overly formal. Many writers, especially those new to academic or professional writing, fall into the trap of using the passive voice when the active voice would be more impactful.
- DEFINITION
- Also used in grammar to describe a sentence structure where the subject is the recipient of the action rather than the performer.
Passive: The ball was hit by the boy.
Active: The boy hit the ball.
§ Mistake 3: Misinterpreting 'Passive Aggression'
'Passive aggression' is a specific behavior where anger or hostility is expressed in an indirect, non-confrontational manner. It's not simply being passive; it involves a deliberate, albeit covert, way of expressing negative feelings. People sometimes confuse a generally passive demeanor with passive-aggressive behavior.
Instead of directly saying no, he used passive-aggressive tactics like procrastination.
§ Mistake 4: Using 'Passive' in a Solely Negative Connotation
While 'passive' often carries a negative connotation in everyday language, implying a lack of engagement or courage, it's not always negative. For example, in certain spiritual or philosophical contexts, 'passive observation' can be a positive trait, denoting a receptive and non-judgmental stance. Similarly, 'passive income' refers to earning money with minimal effort, which is generally seen as desirable.
The guru taught the importance of passive acceptance in the face of change.
§ Mistake 5: Incorrectly Identifying Passive Voice
Sometimes, people mistakenly identify a sentence as being in the passive voice when it's actually active, or vice versa. The key indicator of the passive voice is a form of the verb 'to be' (is, am, are, was, were, been, being) followed by the past participle of the main verb.
Incorrect Passive Identification: 'She felt tired' is not passive. 'Felt' is an active verb here.
Correct Passive Identification: 'The report was written by him.' (was + written)
By understanding these common pitfalls, you can use 'passive' more accurately and effectively in both your communication and writing, enriching your English language skills at a B2 level and beyond.
How Formal Is It?
"The committee's acquiescent stance on the new policy was met with criticism from some members."
"She adopted a passive role in the discussion, allowing others to make the decisions."
"He's pretty laid-back about most things, so he'll probably just go along with whatever we decide."
"My friend is super go-with-the-flow and never complains about what we choose to play."
"Don't worry about it, he's totally chill and won't make a fuss."
难度评级
The definition is straightforward, but understanding the nuances of 'recipient of the action' in grammar might require a bit more cognitive effort for a B2 learner.
Using 'passive' correctly in both its general sense and its grammatical sense requires careful consideration of context. Avoiding common errors like confusing 'passive' with 'submissive' or 'inactive' will be important.
Similar to writing, using 'passive' accurately in conversation, especially when discussing grammar, requires precision. The pronunciation is relatively simple.
The word itself is phonetically regular and easy to distinguish. The challenge would lie in fully comprehending its application in both general and grammatical contexts.
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
需要掌握的语法
The passive voice is formed with a form of the verb 'to be' + the past participle of the main verb.
The ball was thrown by the boy.
The agent (the person or thing performing the action) can be included in a 'by' phrase, but it's often omitted when unknown or unimportant.
The house was built in 1900. (Agent unknown/unimportant)
The passive voice is often used to emphasize the action or the recipient of the action, rather than the performer.
Many mistakes were made during the experiment. (Focus on the mistakes)
The passive voice can be used in various tenses, following the tense of the verb 'to be'.
The report is being written. (Present continuous passive)
While grammatically correct, overuse of the passive voice can make writing sound impersonal or unclear.
The decision was made by the committee. (Active voice: The committee made the decision. - more direct)
按水平分级的例句
He's very passive and rarely offers his opinion.
He is very quiet and doesn't say what he thinks much.
The passive approach to problem-solving didn't get results.
Doing nothing about the problem didn't help.
She was a passive observer of the argument, not getting involved.
She just watched the fight without doing anything.
In a passive sentence, the object of the active verb becomes the subject.
In a passive sentence, the thing that receives the action becomes the main topic.
This sentence refers to the grammatical use of 'passive'.
The company took a passive role in the negotiations.
The company didn't do much in the discussions.
Some people believe that being too passive can be a disadvantage.
Some people think that not acting enough can be a problem.
The window was broken by a ball. (This is a passive sentence.)
A ball broke the window. (This is a passive sentence.)
This example demonstrates a passive sentence structure.
His passive nature made it difficult for him to stand up for himself.
Because he was so quiet, he couldn't defend himself easily.
Despite her initial reservations, she adopted a passive stance, allowing her colleagues to dictate the project's direction.
Despite her initial reservations, she adopted a passive stance, allowing her colleagues to dictate the project's direction.
The company's passive approach to market changes led to a significant loss in its competitive edge.
The company's passive approach to market changes led to a significant loss in its competitive edge.
He was criticized for his passive leadership, which often resulted in a lack of clear decision-making.
He was criticized for his passive leadership, which often resulted in a lack of clear decision-making.
In the passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject, as in 'The ball was hit by the boy.'
In the passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject, as in 'The ball was hit by the boy.'
This sentence uses 'passive voice' as a grammatical term.
Many investors prefer passive income streams, such as rental properties or dividend stocks, requiring minimal active management.
Many investors prefer passive income streams, such as rental properties or dividend stocks, requiring minimal active management.
Her passive demeanor often masked a fiercely intelligent and observant mind.
Her passive demeanor often masked a fiercely intelligent and observant mind.
The protest remained largely passive, with participants holding signs and chanting peacefully.
The protest remained largely passive, with participants holding signs and chanting peacefully.
While the active form emphasizes the doer of the action, the passive form shifts the focus to the action's recipient.
While the active form emphasizes the doer of the action, the passive form shifts the focus to the action's recipient.
This sentence contrasts 'active' and 'passive' grammatical forms.
Despite the glaring injustices, the populace remained largely passive, hesitant to challenge the entrenched regime.
A pesar de las flagrantes injusticias, la población se mantuvo en gran parte pasiva, reacia a desafiar el régimen arraigado.
Here, 'passive' describes the general inaction of the populace.
The CEO's passive approach to market fluctuations ultimately led to a significant decline in company profits.
El enfoque pasivo del CEO ante las fluctuaciones del mercado finalmente llevó a una disminución significativa en las ganancias de la empresa.
This sentence uses 'passive' to characterize a lack of proactive engagement.
She adopted a passive stance during the heated debate, preferring to listen and observe rather than interject.
Ella adoptó una postura pasiva durante el acalorado debate, prefiriendo escuchar y observar en lugar de interponerse.
'Passive stance' refers to a deliberate choice to not actively participate.
The report criticized the committee for its passive oversight, allowing numerous irregularities to go unaddressed.
El informe criticó al comité por su supervisión pasiva, permitiendo que numerosas irregularidades quedaran sin abordar.
'Passive oversight' highlights a failure to adequately monitor or intervene.
In linguistics, a sentence like 'The ball was thrown by the boy' is an example of the passive voice.
En lingüística, una oración como 'La pelota fue lanzada por el niño' es un ejemplo de la voz pasiva.
This sentence illustrates the grammatical definition of 'passive'.
He was not inherently a passive individual, but years of suppression had eroded his willingness to assert himself.
No era intrínsecamente un individuo pasivo, pero años de supresión habían erosionado su voluntad de afirmarse.
Here, 'passive' describes a learned behavior rather than an innate trait.
The new policy, rather than encouraging active participation, inadvertently fostered a passive acceptance among employees.
La nueva política, en lugar de fomentar la participación activa, fomentó inadvertidamente una aceptación pasiva entre los empleados.
'Passive acceptance' implies a lack of critical engagement or challenge.
While a certain degree of passivity can be beneficial in meditation, it is generally detrimental in problem-solving scenarios.
Si bien cierto grado de pasividad puede ser beneficioso en la meditación, generalmente es perjudicial en escenarios de resolución de problemas.
This sentence contrasts the potential benefits and drawbacks of 'passivity' (the noun form of passive).
近义词
反义词
常见搭配
常用短语
take a passive role
remain passive
become passive
be passive about something
lead a passive life
a passive approach
a passive stance
not passive at all
too passive
a completely passive experience
习语与表达
"sit idly by"
To remain inactive or do nothing when action is needed.
I can't just sit idly by while injustice happens.
neutral"take a back seat"
To choose to be less important or less involved in a situation.
He decided to take a back seat and let his team lead the project.
neutral"let things slide"
To allow a situation to worsen by not doing anything to prevent it.
If you keep letting things slide, the problems will only get bigger.
informal"go with the flow"
To adapt to the prevailing circumstances rather than trying to control them.
Sometimes it's easier to just go with the flow than to fight against it.
informal"a fly on the wall"
An unseen observer of a situation.
I'd love to be a fly on the wall in that meeting.
neutral"turn a blind eye"
To deliberately ignore something that you know is wrong.
The authorities were accused of turning a blind eye to the illegal activities.
neutral"bury one's head in the sand"
To refuse to think about an unpleasant situation, hoping it will disappear.
You can't just bury your head in the sand and pretend the problem doesn't exist.
informal"be a shrinking violet"
To be a very shy and modest person.
She's not a shrinking violet; she's always the first to speak her mind.
informal"walk all over someone"
To treat someone badly and without respect, often by taking advantage of their kindness or weakness.
Don't let them walk all over you; stand up for yourself.
informal"a silent partner"
A partner in a business who does not take an active part in its management.
He's a silent partner in the company, providing capital but not day-to-day input.
formal词族
名词
形容词
如何使用
Usage Notes for 'Passive'
'Passive' as an adjective generally describes a lack of action, initiative, or resistance. It can apply to people, attitudes, or even systems. In grammar, the passive voice is a specific construction where the subject of the sentence receives the action of the verb.
- Describing a person/attitude: When describing a person, 'passive' often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying a lack of engagement or assertiveness.
- In grammar: The passive voice is formed with a form of 'to be' + the past participle of the main verb (e.g., 'The ball was thrown'). While not inherently 'bad,' overuse can make writing sound clunky or evasive.
Common Mistakes with 'Passive'
- Confusing 'passive' with 'calm' or 'relaxed': While a passive person might be calm, 'passive' specifically refers to a lack of action or resistance, not just a state of tranquility.
- Overusing the passive voice in writing: While the passive voice has its uses (e.g., when the actor is unknown or unimportant, or to emphasize the recipient of the action), many writers overuse it, leading to less direct and less engaging prose.
- Incorrectly identifying the passive voice: Some learners confuse sentences with a form of 'to be' with the passive voice. For example, 'She is happy' uses 'is' but is not passive because 'happy' is an adjective describing 'she,' not a past participle receiving an action.
- Misunderstanding the nuance of 'passive': The word can have different implications depending on context. For example, 'passive income' is generally positive, while 'passive resistance' implies a deliberate choice not to act aggressively.
在生活中练习
真实语境
In meetings, she's often quite passive, rarely offering her own opinions.
- rarely offering her own opinions
- tends to be passive
- doesn't assert herself
The company's passive approach to market changes led to a decline in sales.
- passive approach
- lack of initiative
- reacted passively
He was criticized for being too passive in the face of injustice.
- being too passive
- didn't take action
- remained passive
The passive voice is often used in academic writing to maintain objectivity.
- passive voice
- is often used
- to maintain objectivity
Despite the problems, the government remained passive, hoping things would improve on their own.
- remained passive
- didn't intervene
- a passive stance
对话开场白
"Can you think of a time when being passive might be a good thing?"
"What's the difference between being passive and being patient?"
"How can someone become less passive if they want to?"
"In what situations do you think people tend to be more passive?"
"Have you ever noticed the passive voice being used in a surprising way?"
日记主题
Describe a situation where you or someone you know was passive. What was the outcome?
Reflect on a time you wish you hadn't been so passive. What would you do differently now?
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of being a passive person.
Explore the concept of 'passive resistance.' How is it different from simply being passive?
Consider how societal expectations might influence whether someone is perceived as passive.
自我测试 150 个问题
Which word describes someone who does not act?
Passive means not acting or resisting.
My brother is very quiet and lets others decide. He is...
Being quiet and letting others decide means he is passive.
In a passive sentence, who receives the action?
In a passive sentence, the subject is the one receiving the action.
A passive person always wants to fight.
A passive person does not resist or fight.
The sentence 'The ball was hit by the boy' is a passive sentence.
In 'The ball was hit by the boy', the ball (subject) receives the action of being hit.
If you are passive, you take control of things.
If you are passive, you let things happen and don't take control.
Listen for how someone's personality is described.
Listen for an example of a type of sentence structure.
Listen for a description of someone who avoids making choices.
Read this aloud:
Say: She is passive.
Focus: passive
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
Say: I am not passive.
Focus: not passive
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
Say: Is he passive?
Focus: Is he passive
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence about someone who doesn't like to make decisions.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My friend is very passive. She lets others choose.
Imagine you are in a group. What would a passive person do?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
A passive person would listen and agree with everyone.
Complete the sentence: My dog is so passive, he always...
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My dog is so passive, he always sleeps on the couch and is very quiet.
What does Maria do in the meeting?
Read this passage:
Maria is in a meeting. Her boss asks for ideas. Maria has many good ideas, but she does not say them. She is quiet. She lets other people talk and decide. She is a passive person.
What does Maria do in the meeting?
The passage says, 'She is quiet. She lets other people talk and decide.'
The passage says, 'She is quiet. She lets other people talk and decide.'
What kind of movie does Tom want to watch?
Read this passage:
Tom and his friends are choosing a movie. Tom says, 'You can choose.' He does not pick a movie. He is happy with any movie. Tom is passive.
What kind of movie does Tom want to watch?
The passage states, 'He is happy with any movie.'
The passage states, 'He is happy with any movie.'
Does my brother try hard to win games?
Read this passage:
My brother is very passive. When we play games, he never tries to win. He just plays for fun. He doesn't get angry if he loses.
Does my brother try hard to win games?
The passage says, 'he never tries to win.'
The passage says, 'he never tries to win.'
This forms a simple, active sentence describing the cat's action.
This forms a basic sentence, with 'He' as the subject performing the action.
This creates a simple sentence, indicating 'They' are doing the action.
She is very quiet and often seems ___.
The sentence describes someone quiet and not participating much, which aligns with 'passive'.
In a ___ sentence, the object becomes the subject.
This describes the grammatical definition of a 'passive' sentence.
He was so ___ that he just let his friends decide everything.
Allowing others to decide without resistance is characteristic of being 'passive'.
The ball ___ by the boy.
This is an example of a passive voice sentence where the action is received by the subject.
She usually doesn't say much and is quite ___ in meetings.
Not saying much and not participating actively in meetings means being 'passive'.
The cake ___ baked by my mother.
This forms a passive sentence, indicating the cake received the action of being baked.
Which of these words means the opposite of 'passive'?
'Active' means doing things, which is the opposite of 'passive' where someone allows things to happen without resistance.
My brother is very _____. He always agrees with what everyone else wants to do.
If someone always agrees with others and doesn't resist, they are passive.
Which sentence uses the word 'passive' correctly?
Being passive means not participating or offering ideas, which fits the sentence.
If you are passive, you like to take charge and tell people what to do.
Being passive means allowing things to happen without resistance, not taking charge.
A passive person often speaks up and shares their opinions loudly.
A passive person typically accepts what others do without resistance, so they are less likely to speak up loudly.
The sentence 'The ball was kicked by the boy' is an example of a passive sentence structure.
In 'The ball was kicked by the boy', the ball (the subject) receives the action, making it a passive sentence.
Think about someone who doesn't like to fight or disagree.
This is about how sentences are made.
Consider someone who doesn't speak up much.
Read this aloud:
I sometimes feel too passive.
Focus: passive
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
Being too passive can be difficult.
Focus: difficult
你说的：
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Read this aloud:
Try not to be passive.
Focus: passive
你说的：
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Write a short sentence describing someone who is passive and doesn't like to make decisions.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
My friend is very passive; she always lets me choose what movie to watch.
Complete the sentence: 'He was so passive that he didn't even _____ when they changed his plans.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
He was so passive that he didn't even complain when they changed his plans.
Rewrite the following sentence to make it more active: 'The ball was hit by the boy.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The boy hit the ball.
What kind of person is the sister?
Read this passage:
My sister is very quiet and doesn't often share her opinions. When we need to choose a restaurant, she usually says, 'You decide.' She doesn't like to argue or stand up for herself. She is a very passive person.
What kind of person is the sister?
The passage states, 'She is a very passive person' and describes her behavior as not sharing opinions, letting others decide, and not liking to argue.
The passage states, 'She is a very passive person' and describes her behavior as not sharing opinions, letting others decide, and not liking to argue.
Which sentence is an example of a passive sentence?
Read this passage:
In a passive sentence, the subject receives the action. For example, 'The cake was eaten by me.' Here, 'the cake' is the subject, and it receives the action of being eaten. In an active sentence, the subject performs the action. For example, 'I ate the cake.'
Which sentence is an example of a passive sentence?
The passage explains that in a passive sentence, the subject receives the action, and gives 'The cake was eaten by me' as an example.
The passage explains that in a passive sentence, the subject receives the action, and gives 'The cake was eaten by me' as an example.
What is one possible result of being a passive person?
Read this passage:
Some people are very passive. They do not like to take charge or make decisions. They often let other people choose for them. This can be good sometimes, but it can also mean they don't get what they really want.
What is one possible result of being a passive person?
The passage states, 'it can also mean they don't get what they really want.'
The passage states, 'it can also mean they don't get what they really want.'
This sentence describes someone who is passive.
This sentence describes a passive behavior of letting others decide for you.
This is an example of a passive sentence structure.
She's too ___ to stand up for herself.
The sentence implies a lack of action or resistance, which is characteristic of being passive.
In a ___ sentence, the subject receives the action.
The definition of a passive sentence in grammar is when the subject is the recipient of the action.
He took a ___ role in the discussion and let others make the decisions.
Taking a 'passive role' means allowing others to lead and not participating actively.
The ball ___ by the child.
This is an example of a passive sentence structure, where the ball (subject) receives the action of being thrown.
Some people believe it's better to be ___ and avoid conflict.
Being passive can mean avoiding conflict by not resisting or asserting oneself.
The report ___ by the committee last week.
This sentence uses the passive voice, indicating that the report (subject) received the action of being written.
Which of these describes a 'passive' person?
A passive person allows things to happen or accepts what others do without resistance or participation.
In grammar, what does 'passive voice' mean?
In passive voice, the subject of the sentence is the recipient of the action rather than the performer.
Which sentence uses the passive voice?
In 'The cat was chased by the dog,' the cat (subject) receives the action of being chased.
A passive person often speaks up and shares their opinion strongly.
A passive person tends to accept things without resistance or participation, rather than speaking up strongly.
The sentence 'The ball was hit by the boy' is an example of the passive voice.
In this sentence, the ball (subject) is the receiver of the action (being hit).
If you are passive, you are always the one making decisions for the group.
A passive person tends to let others make decisions for them, rather than being the one in charge.
The correct order is Subject (He) + Verb (is) + Adjective (a very passive) + Noun (person).
The correct order is Subject (You) + Modal Verb (should) + Negative (not) + Verb (be) + Adverb (so) + Adjective (passive).
The correct order is Subject (We) + Adverb of frequency (sometimes) + Verb (use) + Article (the) + Adjective (passive) + Noun (voice).
The company's management was criticized for its ___ approach to customer complaints, often failing to address issues promptly.
The context implies a lack of action or resistance to addressing complaints, which aligns with the definition of 'passive.'
Instead of actively participating in the debate, John remained a ___ observer, rarely offering his opinions.
A 'passive' observer is one who watches without participating or asserting themselves.
The sentence 'The ball was hit by the boy' is an example of a ___ voice construction.
In grammar, the passive voice is when the subject of the sentence receives the action rather than performs it.
Her ___ acceptance of the unfair rules surprised everyone; they expected her to protest.
A 'passive' acceptance implies accepting without resistance or protest.
If you adopt a ___ stance in negotiations, you might miss out on important concessions.
A 'passive' stance in negotiations means not actively pushing for one's own interests.
The artwork creates a sense of peacefulness, inviting the viewer into a ___ contemplation rather than demanding an active response.
'Passive contemplation' suggests a reflective state where the viewer is not actively interacting but rather observing and receiving.
Which of the following best describes a 'passive' person?
A passive person tends to allow things to happen or accepts what others do without resistance or active participation, often avoiding taking the lead or confronting issues.
In grammar, what does it mean for a sentence to be in the 'passive' voice?
In a passive sentence, the subject is the recipient of the action rather than the performer, meaning the action is 'done to' the subject.
Which sentence uses the word 'passive' correctly in the context of personality?
Being 'passive' in a discussion implies not actively participating or expressing one's views, even if they have strong opinions.
If someone is described as passive, it means they are always the first to volunteer for tasks.
A passive person typically allows things to happen rather than actively volunteering or taking initiative.
The sentence 'The ball was hit by the boy' is an example of a passive voice construction.
In this sentence, 'the ball' (the subject) receives the action of being hit, which is characteristic of the passive voice.
Being passive is always a negative trait, indicating a lack of interest or engagement.
While often used in a critical sense, being passive can sometimes be a deliberate choice to observe, listen, or not interfere, and it isn't always negative.
Think about the meaning of 'passive' in a professional context.
Consider 'passive' in a grammatical sense.
What does a 'passive demeanor' suggest about someone's emotional expression?
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Can you explain how a passive attitude might affect a person's ability to achieve their goals?
Focus: attitude, achieve, goals
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Describe a situation where using the passive voice would be more appropriate than the active voice.
Focus: appropriate, active, passive
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What are some disadvantages of being too passive in a group project or a team setting?
Focus: disadvantages, group project, team setting
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This sentence demonstrates the 'passive' characteristic of not resisting or participating. 'He' is the subject, 'is' is the verb, 'too passive' describes his nature, and 'to stand up for himself' explains the consequence.
This sentence illustrates the grammatical concept of a passive voice, where the subject ('the ball') receives the action ('was kicked') rather than performing it. 'The player' is the agent of the action.
This sentence uses 'passive' to describe a lack of resistance or reaction to criticism. 'Her response' is the subject, 'was' is the verb, and 'quite passive' describes the nature of her response.
The board's approach to the crisis was so \_ that it drew widespread criticism for its lack of decisive action.
The context implies a lack of action and resistance, which aligns with 'passive.' 'Assertive,' 'proactive,' and 'dynamic' suggest active engagement.
Despite the urgency of the situation, the committee adopted a \_ stance, waiting for external forces to dictate their next move.
The phrase 'waiting for external forces to dictate their next move' perfectly describes a 'passive' stance, where one doesn't initiate action.
In a \_ voice, she merely accepted the manager's decision without offering any counter-arguments or expressing her true feelings.
Accepting a decision 'without offering any counter-arguments or expressing her true feelings' indicates a lack of resistance or participation, which is characteristic of being 'passive.'
Many critics argue that a purely \_ investment strategy, while low-risk, often misses opportunities for significant gains.
A 'passive' investment strategy typically involves less active management and allows market forces to dictate outcomes, contrasting with 'aggressive,' 'active,' or 'dynamic' strategies.
The sentence, 'The ball was hit by the boy,' is an example of the \_ voice in English grammar.
In the passive voice, the subject ('the ball') receives the action of the verb ('was hit'), and the performer ('the boy') is often introduced by 'by.'
During the negotiation, his \_ demeanor was interpreted by the other party as a sign of weakness, leading to a less favorable outcome.
A 'passive' demeanor suggests a lack of resistance or assertiveness, which can be perceived as weakness in a negotiation. 'Dominant,' 'assertive,' and 'resolute' convey strength.
Which of the following best describes a 'passive' individual in a team setting?
A passive individual allows things to happen or accepts what others do without resistance or participation. In a team setting, this translates to accepting decisions without much input.
In the sentence, 'The ball was hit by the player,' the verb 'was hit' is an example of what kind of voice?
In the passive voice, the subject of the sentence is the recipient of the action, rather than the performer. Here, 'the ball' receives the action of being hit.
Which sentence demonstrates the grammatical concept of 'passive' voice?
In this sentence, 'a new policy' is the subject and is receiving the action of being implemented. The committee, the performer of the action, is introduced with 'by the committee', indicating passive voice.
Being 'passive' in a negotiation means you are more likely to achieve your desired outcome.
Being passive in a negotiation typically means you are accepting what others do without resistance or participation, which often leads to not achieving your desired outcome.
The sentence 'The report was written by Sarah' is in the passive voice.
In this sentence, 'the report' is the subject and receives the action of being written. Sarah, the performer of the action, is introduced with 'by Sarah', indicating passive voice.
To make a sentence active, you often need to identify who or what is performing the action.
The active voice emphasizes the doer of the action. To change a passive sentence to active, you typically make the performer of the action the subject.
Focus on the speaker's tone and the implication of 'passive' in this context.
Listen for how 'passive' describes the committee's actions.
Consider the emotional weight of 'regretted' and its connection to being 'passive'.
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It is often said that a truly effective leader cannot afford to be passive.
Focus: cannot afford to be passive
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Some argue that a passive investment strategy can be beneficial in the long run.
Focus: passive investment strategy
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In the passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject.
Focus: passive voice, active sentence, the subject
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This sentence describes a shift from a passive attitude to an active one, showcasing the meaning of 'passive' in a behavioral context.
This sentence illustrates 'passive' as a characteristic of an approach that lacks initiative or responsiveness.
This sentence directly explains the grammatical definition of 'passive voice'.
The CEO's historically _______ leadership style was finally challenged by the newly appointed board members.
The context implies a leadership style that lacks initiative or resistance, which aligns with 'passive'.
Despite the blatant injustices, the community remained largely _______, failing to organize any meaningful protests.
The sentence suggests a lack of action or engagement, and while 'passive' could fit, 'apathetic' more strongly conveys a lack of interest or concern that leads to inaction.
The experimental drug, while not actively harmful, was deemed largely _______ in treating the aggressive disease.
In this context, 'inert' refers to something that is not actively effective or does not participate in a reaction, similar to the concept of 'passive' in its lack of action.
In the sentence 'The ball was hit by the boy,' the verb 'was hit' is an example of the _______ voice.
This sentence directly tests the grammatical definition of 'passive voice', where the subject receives the action.
Her _______ demeanor often led others to underestimate her keen intelligence and strategic mind.
A 'reticent' demeanor suggests a quiet and reserved nature, which can be interpreted as a form of passivity, especially if it leads to being underestimated.
The company's _______ approach to market changes ultimately resulted in a significant loss of market share.
A 'reactive' approach implies responding to events rather than initiating action, aligning with the concept of 'passive' in its lack of proactivity.
Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies a 'passive' individual?
A passive individual typically avoids confrontation and allows things to happen without resistance, aligning with remaining silent when challenged.
In a grammatical context, which sentence uses the 'passive' voice?
The passive voice is characterized by the subject receiving the action ('landscape was painted') rather than performing it.
Which of these phrases is an antonym for the 'passive' characteristic of a person?
An assertive demeanor suggests an active and direct approach, which is the opposite of being passive or allowing things to happen without resistance.
A truly effective leader often demonstrates a passive approach to decision-making to foster team autonomy.
While fostering team autonomy is good, a truly effective leader typically needs to be assertive and decisive, not passive, in decision-making, even when empowering their team.
The sentence 'The ball was hit by the player' is an example of the passive voice.
In this sentence, 'the ball' is the recipient of the action 'hit,' making it an example of the passive voice.
Being passive is always a negative trait, indicating a lack of engagement or responsibility.
While often used negatively, being passive can sometimes be a neutral or even beneficial trait, depending on the context, such as in situations requiring observation or patience.
Listen for the word that describes his reaction to injustice.
Focus on how 'passive' is used in a grammatical context.
Consider the different interpretations of 'passive acceptance'.
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Discuss how a 'passive' investment strategy differs from an 'active' one in terms of risk and return.
Focus: passive
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Elaborate on the circumstances under which 'passive' resistance might be a more effective form of protest than direct confrontation.
Focus: passive
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Analyze the impact of a predominantly 'passive' populace on the political landscape of a nation.
Focus: passive
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Write a short essay (approximately 200 words) arguing for or against the idea that a purely passive approach to conflict resolution can ever be truly effective in complex geopolitical situations. Support your argument with specific examples.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
In the intricate dance of international relations, the efficacy of a purely passive approach to conflict resolution is a contentious issue. While proponents might argue that non-interventionism minimizes bloodshed and allows internal dynamics to naturally evolve, the historical record often reveals a different narrative. For instance, the Rwandan genocide of 1994, where international passivity led to catastrophic loss of life, stands as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of inaction. Similarly, during the early stages of World War II, appeasement policies, a form of passive diplomacy, failed to deter aggression and arguably emboldened expansionist regimes. Conversely, a measured, albeit passive, diplomatic approach, such as sustained negotiations in the Iranian nuclear deal, has shown some success, though its long-term effectiveness remains debated. The challenge lies in discerning when passivity transitions from a prudent strategy of de-escalation to a dangerous abdication of responsibility, particularly when human rights or international stability are at stake. A truly effective resolution often necessitates a dynamic interplay of active diplomacy, strategic pressure, and, at times, coercive measures, rather than an unyielding commitment to passivity.
Analyze a complex grammatical sentence (e.g., 'The decision, which had been painstakingly deliberated upon by the committee over several arduous sessions, was ultimately postponed indefinitely due to unforeseen logistical impediments.') and rewrite it into a more active voice, explaining the impact of your changes on clarity and emphasis.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Original Sentence: 'The decision, which had been painstakingly deliberated upon by the committee over several arduous sessions, was ultimately postponed indefinitely due to unforeseen logistical impediments.' Active Voice Rewrite: 'After several arduous sessions, the committee painstakingly deliberated upon the decision, but unforeseen logistical impediments ultimately postponed it indefinitely.' Impact of Changes: The original sentence, laden with passive constructions ('had been deliberated upon,' 'was postponed'), obscured the active agents. By shifting to the active voice, the committee is clearly identified as the subject performing the action of deliberating, and the logistical impediments become the direct cause of the postponement. This change enhances clarity by making the sentence more direct and concise, eliminating unnecessary words. The emphasis also shifts from the passive recipient of the action (the decision) to the active performers and causes, creating a more dynamic and engaging sentence structure.
Compose a persuasive paragraph arguing for the importance of active engagement in civic life, contrasting it with the pitfalls of a purely passive citizenry. Use at least two examples of historical or contemporary events to support your argument.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Active engagement in civic life is the bedrock of a thriving democracy, a stark contrast to the perils of a purely passive citizenry. When individuals disengage, they inadvertently cede control to powerful interests, leading to policies that may not serve the broader public good. The rise of authoritarian regimes, for instance, often occurs in environments where citizens remain passive and indifferent to incremental erosion of their rights, as witnessed in pre-World War II Germany. Conversely, movements like the American Civil Rights Movement exemplify the transformative power of active citizenry, where persistent advocacy and non-violent resistance ultimately dismantled systemic segregation. A passive populace risks becoming spectators in their own governance, susceptible to manipulation and the slow decay of democratic institutions. Therefore, active participation, whether through voting, protest, or community organizing, is not merely a right but a fundamental responsibility essential for societal progress and safeguarding freedoms.
According to the passage, what is a potential drawback of an over-reliance on passive investment strategies?
Read this passage:
In the intricate web of global economics, the concept of 'passive investment' has gained considerable traction among financial strategists and individual investors alike. This approach, characterized by a hands-off strategy where an investor tracks a market-weighted index or portfolio rather than actively selecting individual securities, ostensibly minimizes transaction costs and the need for constant market analysis. However, critics contend that an over-reliance on passive investment strategies, particularly during periods of market volatility or significant economic shifts, can lead to systemic risks. They argue that the lack of active price discovery, where individual stocks are meticulously analyzed and valued, could potentially create market inefficiencies and exacerbate downturns, as collective behavior rather than fundamental value drives asset prices.
According to the passage, what is a potential drawback of an over-reliance on passive investment strategies?
The passage states, 'However, critics contend that an over-reliance on passive investment strategies... can lead to systemic risks. They argue that the lack of active price discovery... could potentially create market inefficiencies and exacerbate downturns.' This directly supports option C.
The passage states, 'However, critics contend that an over-reliance on passive investment strategies... can lead to systemic risks. They argue that the lack of active price discovery... could potentially create market inefficiencies and exacerbate downturns.' This directly supports option C.
Based on the passage, in what context might the passive voice be considered a 'powerful tool'?
Read this passage:
The evolution of human language is often seen as a testament to our species' capacity for active, complex thought. However, some linguistic theories propose that certain grammatical structures, particularly passive voice constructions, might reflect more nuanced cognitive processes than mere stylistic choices. For instance, the use of passive voice can sometimes serve to depersonalize an action, emphasizing the outcome or the affected entity rather than the agent. This can be particularly useful in scientific writing, where objectivity is paramount, or in situations where the agent is unknown or irrelevant. While often admonished for its perceived lack of directness, a judicious application of the passive voice can, therefore, be a powerful tool for conveying specific communicative intentions.
Based on the passage, in what context might the passive voice be considered a 'powerful tool'?
The passage states, 'This can be particularly useful in scientific writing, where objectivity is paramount, or in situations where the agent is unknown or irrelevant.' This directly aligns with option C.
The passage states, 'This can be particularly useful in scientific writing, where objectivity is paramount, or in situations where the agent is unknown or irrelevant.' This directly aligns with option C.
According to existentialist thought, what is a characteristic of an 'active engagement with life'?
Read this passage:
Philosophical discourse frequently grapples with the distinction between active and passive forms of existence. Existentialist thinkers, for example, often advocate for an active engagement with life, urging individuals to define their own meaning and purpose rather than passively accepting predetermined roles or societal norms. This active stance involves taking responsibility for one's choices and confronting the inherent anxieties of freedom. Conversely, a purely passive existence, characterized by a lack of introspection and a deferral of personal agency, can lead to a sense of alienation and unfulfillment. The challenge, then, lies in cultivating a conscious awareness that allows for deliberate action rather than simply being carried along by external forces.
According to existentialist thought, what is a characteristic of an 'active engagement with life'?
The passage states, 'Existentialist thinkers, for example, often advocate for an active engagement with life, urging individuals to define their own meaning and purpose rather than passively accepting predetermined roles or societal norms. This active stance involves taking responsibility for one's choices and confronting the inherent anxieties of freedom.' This directly supports option C.
The passage states, 'Existentialist thinkers, for example, often advocate for an active engagement with life, urging individuals to define their own meaning and purpose rather than passively accepting predetermined roles or societal norms. This active stance involves taking responsibility for one's choices and confronting the inherent anxieties of freedom.' This directly supports option C.
This sentence structure emphasizes the contrast between her appearance and her true character, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of 'passive'.
This sentence showcases the dynamic nature of 'passive' in a narrative context, highlighting its potential for transformation.
This sentence uses 'passive' to describe an inaction that has significant consequences, demonstrating a critical application of the word.
/ 150 correct
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例句
He has a very passive personality and rarely voices his own opinions in a group.
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abanthropate
C1Describes a state of being removed from, or having lost, the essential qualities and characteristics of humanity. It is often used in philosophical or literary contexts to describe a person or entity that has transcended or been alienated from the human condition.
abhospence
C1A rare or formal term describing the state or act of lacking hospitality, or the deliberate withdrawal of a welcoming attitude towards guests or outsiders. It refers to a cold, inhospitable atmosphere or a specific instance where a host fails to provide expected comforts or kindness.
abjudtude
C1The state or quality of being formally rejected, cast off, or disowned through an authoritative or judicial decision. It refers to a condition of absolute renunciation where a person or entity is stripped of their previous status or rights.
abphobship
C1A formal adjective describing a systemic and deep-seated aversion to institutional hierarchies or organized authority figures. It is frequently applied in sociological and organizational contexts to describe individuals or movements that intentionally distance themselves from formal power structures.
abstinence
B2指自愿克制某种欲望，通常指戒酒、戒食或禁欲，是一种自觉的选择。
abtactship
C1指没有物理接触或无法触及的状态。常用来描述非物质或非身体的关系。
abtrudship
C1To forcefully impose one's leadership, authority, or specific set of rules onto a group without their consent or prior consultation. It describes the act of thrusting a structured way of doing things upon others in a dominant or intrusive manner.
abvictious
C1To strategically yield or concede a minor position or advantage in order to ensure a greater ultimate victory. It describes a sophisticated form of success achieved through intentional, calculated loss or withdrawal.
abvolism
C1为了获得完全的个人自主权而故意疏远社会规范的行为。
acceptance
B2Acceptance is the act of agreeing to an offer, plan, or invitation, or the process of being received into a group or society. It also refers to the willingness to tolerate a difficult situation or the state of being approved by others.
