on the passive side

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the passive side" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tendency or inclination towards passivity in behavior or attitude. Example: "In discussions, she often remains on the passive side, allowing others to take the lead."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Additionally, on the passive side, the long-term annual returns of one index comprising firms scoring highly on environmental, social and governance criteria exceeded the S&P 500 by 45 basis points.

Huffington Post

On the "passive" side was my colleague, Larry Swedroe, director of research at The BAM Alliance.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Similarly, it's important for marketers to concentrate on what some deem the passive side of email campaigns: the content.

HuffPost

Walk on the peaceful side".

BBC

In this position, maximal tension is put on the passive and active structures on the frontal side of the hip, which is the area of pain in hip dysplasia (Klaue et al. 1991, Nunley et al. 2011).

Acta Orthopaedica

The use of Twitter for protest has a less passive side, too.

Forbes

Here the D.I.Y. ethos of a half-generation ago reveals its passive side.

The New Yorker

The B group viewed 'Toy Story 3D' on the passive 3D TV 47LD920-2A, wearing passive 3D glasses.

Ergonomics

On one side are the six ASICs and on the other side is a large, passive heatsink.

TechCrunch

But for someone who apparently brought a new audience to Jewish music through his performances, as depicted here Shlomo seems an awfully passive figure, always on the wrong side of somebody's anger or disappointment.

The New York Times

On the other side of the spectrum passive whisker movements in anesthetized rodents are very well controlled and robust; yet probably differ from the physiological whisker activation.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the passive side", ensure the context clearly defines what the active counterpart is. This provides a clearer understanding of the contrast you're drawing.

Common error

Avoid using "on the passive side" when a more direct term like "passively" or "inactively" would be more concise and precise. This prevents unnecessary wordiness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the passive side" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate a manner or direction of action. According to Ludwig AI, it describes a tendency or inclination towards passivity in behavior or attitude.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on the passive side" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a tendency towards inactivity or a less involved role. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It functions as an adverbial phrase, contrasting actions with their active counterparts. While generally neutral in register, it is more commonly found in news and media and scientific contexts. When incorporating this phrase, ensure that the active counterpart is clear and consider if a more direct term would be more concise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a passive role

Focuses on the role or function being passive.

from a passive perspective

Emphasizes the viewpoint as being passive rather than the action.

in a non-participatory manner

Highlights the lack of active involvement or participation.

on the receptive end

Suggests receiving or being subject to something without acting.

in a reactive position

Highlights responding to actions rather than initiating them.

on the sidelines

Implies being an observer rather than an active participant.

in a detached manner

Suggests a lack of emotional involvement or active engagement.

from an uninvolved stance

Emphasizes a lack of active engagement or interest.

taking a backseat

Implies allowing others to lead or take control.

in an acquiescent state

Highlights agreement or compliance without active resistance.

FAQs

How can I use "on the passive side" in a sentence?

You can use "on the passive side" to describe a tendency towards inactivity or a less involved role. For example, "In discussions, she tends to remain "on the passive side", allowing others to take the lead."

What are some alternatives to "on the passive side"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "in a passive role", "inactively", or "non-participatory".

Is it correct to say "on the passive side" in formal writing?

Yes, "on the passive side" is grammatically correct and can be used in formal writing, but consider whether a more concise term might be more appropriate for clarity and impact.

What's the difference between "on the passive side" and "passive"?

"Passive" is a direct adjective describing a state or quality, while "on the passive side" is a prepositional phrase that suggests a tendency or inclination towards passivity. Using "passive" might be more appropriate in some instances because it is more direct.