Passive

Passive use depends on the context of the surrounding clause(s).

For example:

1. Because Sherri was late, her teacher sent her to the principal’s office. (active)
2. Because Sherri was late, she was sent to the principal’s office. (passive)

The independent clauses of the above sentences show active and passive voice, but what is the difference?

• In 1., “her teacher” takes some attention from the dependent clause. Her teacher performs the action of the independent clause.
• In 2., Sherri keeps the focus in both clauses. She is the subject of the dependent clause.

1. He is hit. (present)
2. He was hit. (past)
3. He will be hit. (future)
4. He has been hit. (present perfect)
5. He had been hit. (past perfect)
6. He will have been hit. (future perfect)
7. He is being hit. (present progressive)
8. He was being hit. (past progressive)