a passive position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a passive position' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to an attitude or approach that is defined by not taking action or making decisions. For example, "Many members of the board adopted a passive position when it came to making important decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

In any case, with 10... e5? he accepted a passive position that boded no good.

The New York Times

The Ennahdha-led government took a passive position, as if to say, "No enemies among Islamists".

The New Yorker

"Now we are in a passive position in dealing with Japan's provocations," he said.

The New York Times

But Kosteniuk chose the dubious and rarely played 11 Qc3 and quickly fell into a passive position.

The New York Times

After 26... Rc8, Matikozian has a passive position and therefore strikes out for active maneuvers with 27 b4.

The New York Times

Kaufmann said that Ahmad adopted a "passive position" with his hands above his head as soon as the police entered the house.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

This sensor was also mounted on a passive positioning device, which allowed the precise adjustment of the phantom's position and orientation with respect to the insertion tool and, therefore, the feed motion of the electrode carrier.

BioMed Research International

Using an ethnographically inspired approach, five couples, each including a person with Alzheimer´ s disease and his/her spouse living in their own home, were repeatedly observed and interviewed regarding their experiences of using a passive positioning alarm.

BMC Geriatrics

Using a passive positioning alarm can be a valuable support that allows persons with dementia to be alone outdoors and can increase safety and security for them and their spouses.

BMC Geriatrics

A passive positioning alarm for persons with dementia and their spouses needs to be packaged as a "service" with flexibility for each user and based on user needs, abilities, knowledge and skills.

BMC Geriatrics

The aim of the present intervention study was to describe and explore the use and experiences of using a passive positioning alarm, over time, in daily life among persons with dementia and their spouses.

BMC Geriatrics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a conscious choice to not intervene, use "a passive position" to clearly indicate a deliberate lack of action, rather than simple negligence.

Common error

Avoid using "a passive position" when you actually mean a lack of power or influence. Passivity implies a choice, while weakness suggests an inability to act.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a passive position" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes a state of inactivity, non-intervention, or receptiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a passive position" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression that describes a state of inactivity or non-intervention. Ludwig AI confirms this. While not extremely common, it appears in various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. It's important to use this phrase when you want to convey a deliberate choice of inaction, rather than simply a lack of power or influence. Alternatives like "an inactive stance" or "a hands-off approach" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an inactive stance

Emphasizes the lack of activity or engagement in a situation.

a non-participatory role

Highlights the absence of active involvement in a process or activity.

a receptive mode

Focuses on being open to receiving information or influence without actively contributing.

a hands-off approach

Indicates a deliberate choice to avoid direct intervention or control.

a withdrawn posture

Suggests a deliberate removal from active participation or engagement.

a laid-back attitude

Implies a relaxed and unassertive approach, often lacking urgency.

a compliant disposition

Highlights a willingness to follow instructions or accept decisions without resistance.

an unassertive manner

Emphasizes the lack of confidence or willingness to express opinions or take action.

a yielding stance

Indicates a willingness to give way to the opinions or demands of others.

a detached perspective

Suggests a lack of emotional involvement or personal investment in a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "a passive position" in a sentence?

You can use "a passive position" to describe someone or something that is not actively involved or influential in a situation. For example, "The government adopted "a passive position" on the trade negotiations."

What are some alternatives to saying "a passive position"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an inactive stance", "a non-participatory role", or "a hands-off approach".

Is it better to take "a passive position" or an active one?

Neither position is inherently better. Whether to take "a passive position" or an active one depends entirely on the situation and your goals. Sometimes it's better to observe and wait before acting; other times, it's crucial to be proactive.

What does it mean to be in "a passive offside position" in soccer?

In soccer, a player can be in "a passive offside position" if they are offside but not interfering with play. This is a specific term with a particular meaning within the sport.