remain passive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "remain passive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of not taking action or not engaging in a situation. Example: "In times of conflict, some individuals choose to remain passive rather than take sides."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, many remain passive bystanders who, by their passivity, encourage perpetrators.

Huffington Post

Yet no country can remain passive while civilians are massacred.

The New York Times

Even in temptation the contemplative should remain passive.

Britannica

Viewers can no longer remain passive spectators hidden in the dark.

The New York Times

Few Cypriots with property claims, though, are likely to remain passive.

The New York Times

Parents, pupils and teachers remain passive recipients of a knowledge-driven curriculum.

The Guardian

In India, while women are venerated, they are also expected to remain "passive," Ms. Basu said.

The New York Times

"Therefore, the notion that he can remain passive forever does slightly strain credulity".

The New York Times - Sports

NATO and the European Union should not remain passive about that possibility.

The New York Times

The new owners of the minority stakes are expected to remain passive investors, Ms. Stacom said.

The New York Times

Still, courts often remain passive pawns in the party's efforts to handle big disputes behind closed doors.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a strategic choice to avoid escalating a situation, use "remain passive" to convey calculated restraint rather than indifference.

Common error

Avoid using "remain passive" when the context requires active engagement. Passivity should not be a synonym for apathy or neglect; use it when deliberate restraint is intended.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remain passive" functions as a verb phrase where "remain" is a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "passive", describing a state of being. Ludwig AI shows its frequent usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "remain passive" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a state of inaction or non-intervention. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and diverse applications. Its usage spans a range of contexts, from News & Media to scientific research, highlighting its versatility. While generally neutral in tone, its implications can vary from strategic restraint to indifference. When using this phrase, consider the potential for misinterpretation and ensure that the context clearly conveys the intended meaning. Alternatives such as "stay inactive" or "not take action" may offer greater clarity in certain situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stay inactive

Focuses on the state of being not active, emphasizing a lack of physical or mental engagement.

not take action

Highlights the conscious decision to avoid intervening or participating.

stand idly by

Implies observing an event without offering help or resistance, often with a negative connotation.

do nothing

A straightforward expression of complete inaction or lack of effort.

keep still

Emphasizes physical immobility and a lack of movement.

abstain from involvement

Suggests a deliberate choice to not get involved in a situation or activity.

forgo intervention

Highlights the act of choosing not to intervene in a specific situation, suggesting a potential need for action.

cease resistance

Indicates the end of active opposition or struggle, implying acceptance or surrender.

become a bystander

Shifts the focus to the role of an observer who does not participate or intervene.

refrain from acting

Implies a conscious effort to hold back from taking any steps or measures.

FAQs

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

You can use "remain passive" to describe a decision to not take action in a specific situation. For example: "The negotiator chose to "remain passive" during the initial stages of the discussion to better assess the other party's position."

What does it mean to "remain passive"?

To "remain passive" means to stay inactive, not take action, or avoid getting involved in a situation. It often implies a deliberate choice to observe or wait rather than intervene.

What are some alternatives to "remain passive"?

Alternatives to "remain passive" include "stay inactive", "not take action", or "stand idly by", depending on the specific context and intended meaning.

In what situations is it appropriate to "remain passive"?

It's appropriate to "remain passive" when active intervention could worsen a situation, when more information is needed before acting, or when a calculated approach involves waiting for the right opportunity.