When is it appropriate to use the passive voice? (1 point)Responses when the person or thing performing the action is a proper noun when the person or thing performing the action is a proper noun It is never appropriate to use the passive voice. It is never appropriate to use the passive voice. when the person or thing performing the action is unimportant or unknown when the person or thing performing the action is unimportant or unknown when the person or thing performing the action comes before the verb
when the person or thing performing the action is unimportant or unknown
The appropriate use of passive voice is when the person or thing performing the action is unimportant or unknown. In this case, the focus is on the action or the subject of the sentence rather than the doer. Another appropriate use is when the person or thing performing the action comes after the verb, as it can help emphasize the object or the receiver of the action. It is important to note that using passive voice too frequently can make writing less clear and direct, so it should be used sparingly and with purpose.
The appropriate use of the passive voice depends on the context and the intended emphasis of the sentence. Generally, it is appropriate to use the passive voice in the following situations:
1. When the person or thing performing the action is a proper noun: For example, "The Mona Lisa was painted by Leonardo da Vinci." Here, the focus is on the artwork rather than the artist.
2. When the person or thing performing the action is unimportant or unknown: In cases where the focus is on the action itself rather than the doer, the passive voice can be used. For instance, "The car was stolen." In this sentence, the emphasis is on the car being stolen rather than who stole it.
3. When the person or thing performing the action comes before the verb: Sometimes, for stylistic or rhetorical reasons, it is preferred to have the subject of the sentence come before the verb. For example, "The window was broken by the storm." Here, the passive voice allows the sentence to begin with "The window," thus emphasizing its importance.
However, it is important to note that the passive voice should not be overused, as it can make writing sound less direct or less engaging. Active voice is generally preferred as it emphasizes the doer of the action and adds clarity to the sentence.