passive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "passive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing grammar, voice, or behavior that is not active or assertive. Example: "In this sentence, the verb is in the passive voice, which emphasizes the action rather than the subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It sounds like this woman of yours could do with an excess of attention on her for a change and that may require you to step up from your previous passive role.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is an act of passive resistance against the power and influence of the fashion industry.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Whilst oxytocin is important for passive behaviours [such as hugging], vasopressin is part of the active coping system," Carter says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The existing practice structure is failing because of prolonged passive disinvestment by the current owner operators as it has become apparent that their assets have no market.

The Guardian

For NoMorePage3 campaigners, it was always about context – placed prominently in the newspaper, the images sent the message that the news about women was their breasts, and that they were passive decorations there to titillate man.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Instead of being a very passive person who had had a nervous breakdown, I saw I had something to give".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As it is, the world has been left to decode the post-gala lunge by Solange Knowles at Jay Z from other sources – primarily, she and her sister's accounts on Instagram, the world's foremost wire service for passive aggressively-rendered news.

The Guardian - Opinion

He suggested that people consider installing alternatives to CCTV, such as passive infrared lighting, better external security or a fence.

The Guardian

In a world where global sporting spectacles are packaged for passive consumption, the GAA appeals to something local, intimate and democratic.

The Guardian

"In fact if you have to attach urgency to the task of dealing with one or the other, the more urgent task would be Hezbollah and Iran - Assad has almost become a passive player here.

The Guardian

In the fifth, Lee raised his right glove and invited a momentarily passive Quillin in, drawing a vocal reaction from the crowd of 12,300.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If "passive" is used as adjective, you should double check that the final syntagm has a solid and clear construction that enables writing clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "passive" as a blanket term for inaction, which can sound accusatory. Instead, specify the context: 'He remained uninvolved' is more constructive than 'He was passive'.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "passive" is as an adjective, describing a state of being subjected to an action without producing a reaction or taking no action. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment and can be seen across numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "passive" functions primarily as an adjective, denoting a state of inaction, submissiveness, or being acted upon. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. Its frequency is very common, particularly in news and media, and it carries a neutral register. When using "passive", be mindful of the context to ensure accuracy and avoid accusatory tones. Consider alternative phrases like "inactive" or "submissive" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember that while "passive" describes non-action, it doesn't necessarily imply negativity; it can simply indicate a state of being.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inactive

Focuses on the lack of physical or mental activity.

submissive

Emphasizes a willingness to yield to the authority or will of others.

inert

Highlights a lack of ability or tendency to move or react.

non-participatory

Directly indicates a lack of involvement or contribution.

unresponsive

Stresses a failure to respond to stimuli or interaction.

acquiescent

Suggests a quiet acceptance or compliance without protest.

compliant

Highlights adherence to rules or requests.

receptive

Emphasizes openness to new ideas or suggestions, rather than a lack of action.

latent

Implies a potential for activity or expression that is not currently visible.

dormant

Suggests a state of inactivity or suspension, often temporary.

FAQs

How to use "passive" in a sentence?

You can use "passive" to describe someone's behavior (e.g., "He remained "passive" during the debate"), or to describe a grammatical structure (e.g., "The sentence is in the "passive" voice").

What are some synonyms for "passive"?

Depending on the context, synonyms for "passive" include "inactive", "submissive", "inert", and "unresponsive".

What does it mean when someone is described as "passive"?

When someone is described as "passive", it usually means they are not actively participating or taking initiative in a situation. They may be "uninvolved", "unassertive", or allowing others to take the lead.

What's the difference between "passive" and "receptive"?

"Passive" implies a lack of action or resistance, while "receptive" suggests an openness to new ideas or suggestions. Someone who is "receptive" is willing to listen and consider new information, while someone who is "passive" may simply be "inactive" or "unresponsive".