Table of Contents
What Is an Active Sentence?
An active sentence is one where the subject of the sentence performs the action described by the verb. In this structure, the focus is on the doer of the action rather than the recipient.
Examples:
The dog chased the ball.
She wrote a letter to her friend.
The chef prepared a delicious meal.
Example Sentences
John eats an apple.
- This is an active sentence because the subject John) performs the action eats on the object an apple.
She is writing a letter.
- In this sentence, the subject She is actively performing the action writing on the object (a letter). The verb is in the present continuous tense.
The dog chased the cat.
- This active sentence shows the subject The dog doing the action chased to the object the cat.
They will build a new house.
- Here, the subject They actively performs the action will build on the object a new house. The verb is in the future tense.
The teacher explained the lesson.
- In this sentence, the subject The teacher actively performs the action explained to the object the lesson.
Why Active Sentences Are Important
Clarity and Simplicity
- Active sentences make the subject and action clear, helping readers or listeners understand the message quickly.
Examples:
The chef cooked a delicious meal.
(The subject, chef, is performing the action cooked.)
The dog barked at the stranger.
(The subject, dog, is clearly performing the action barked.)
Direct and Engaging
- Active sentences create a more natural and conversational tone, keeping the message engaging and straightforward.
Examples:
- Sarah painted the entire wall.
(The subject Sarah is directly performing the action painted.)
- The students solved the puzzle quickly.
(The subject students is actively doing the action solved.)
Improves Writing Style
- Active sentences make writing concise and impactful, avoiding unnecessary complexity.
Examples:
- The athlete broke the record.
(The subject athlete clearly performs the action broke.)
- The artist drew a beautiful sketch.
(The subject artist directly performs the action drew.)
Key Features of Active Sentences
Subject Performs the Action
- In active sentences, the subject is the doer of the action, making the sentence direct and clear.
- The cat chased the mouse.
Action-Focused Verbs
- The verbs are dynamic and highlight the action being performed, creating a vivid and engaging tone.
- Sarah baked a cake.
Object Receives the Action
- The object of the sentence is directly affected by the subject’s action, emphasizing a clear flow of information.
- The dog barked loudly.
Conciseness
- Active sentences are typically shorter and more straightforward compared to passive sentences, avoiding unnecessary words.
- The team won the match.
Emphasis on Clarity
- They clearly identify who is responsible for the action, reducing ambiguity in communication.
- The children decorated the room.
Tips for Writing Active Sentences
Focus on the Subject
- Ensure the subject of the sentence is performing the action rather than receiving it.
Use Strong Action Verbs
- Avoid weak or passive verbs like “is,” “was,” or “has been.” Choose direct and dynamic verbs to convey the action.
Avoid Overusing “By” Phrases
- Passive sentences often include phrases starting with “by.” Rephrase to make the subject the doer of the action.
Keep the Sentence Concise
- Write in a straightforward manner, with the subject acting immediately on the object without unnecessary words.
Avoid Excessive Nominalizations
- Use verbs instead of turning actions into nouns, which can lead to passive constructions.
Identifying active vs passive voice sentences
Active to Passive Sentences Table
| Active Sentence | Passive Sentence |
|---|---|
| John completed the project. | The project was completed by John. |
| The teacher praised the student. | The student was praised by the teacher. |
| She is cleaning the house. | The house is being cleaned by her. |
| They will deliver the package. | The package will be delivered by them. |
| The chef cooked a delicious meal. | A delicious meal was cooked by the chef. |
FAQS about Active Sentences
1. What is an active sentence?
An active sentence is one in which the subject performs the action of the verb. It follows the structure Subject → Verb → Object and makes the message clear and direct.
Example: The cat chased the mouse.
2. How is an active sentence different from a passive sentence?
In an active sentence, the subject performs the action, while in a passive sentence, the subject receives the action.
Active: The chef cooked the meal.
Passive: The meal was cooked by the chef.
3. Why are active sentences important?
Active sentences improve clarity, make writing concise, and engage readers by emphasizing the subject’s actions. They are preferred in both academic and professional writing for their straightforwardness.
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