Exercise Nine: Changing Verbs from Passive to Active
Example:
Convert the following sentences from passive to active voice:
1. The effects of an opioid overdose can be reversed by Naloxone.
2. Today in a speech to the Union of BC Municipalities, a new program was announced by the
premier.
3. The citizens of B.C. are served by B.C.’s elected leaders and public servants.
4. One type of air pollution is caused by hydrocarbons.
5. The dividends of a strong and diversified economy and prudent fiscal management are
delivered
by British Columbia’s fifth‐consecutive balanced budget.
6. It was decided by the court that the contract was unconstitutional.
7. The kayak was invented by Indigenous people for transportation and fishing.
8. The original trusses and the repair were designed by the same registered professional.
9. The tax applies even if the insurance was purchased by a non‐resident on your behalf.
10. Today’s blog was written by staff working on elder abuse prevention.
FROM PASSIVE TO ACTIVE
1. We are taught grammar by Ms Sullivan.
2. He was praised by the teacher.
3. The injured were taken to the hospital by the firemen.
4. The town was destroyed by an earthquake.
5. The teacher was pleased with the boy’s work.
6. The building was damaged by the fire.
7. By whom were you taught French?
8. You will be given a ticket by the manager.
9. The streets were thronged with spectators.
10. We will be blamed by everyone.
11. The trees were blown down by the wind.
12. The thieves were caught by the police.
13. The letter was posted by Alice.
14. We were received by the hostess.
15. The snake was killed with a stick.
16. The minister was welcomed by the people.
17. He was found guilty of murder.
18. This house was built by John Mathews in 1991
1. My purse has been found by one of the cleaners.
2. He was hit on the head with a hammer (by the robber).
3. A new road has been built in this area (by the government).
4. I was handed a note (by the assistant).
5. John was elected class representative.
6. My wallet has been taken.
7. Bicycles are (often, widely) used as a means of transport.
8. I was advised to get a visa.
9. The old road was being rebuilt when I drove by.
10. A new shopping centre was opened by the local council.
11. Nothing has been decided yet.
12. The new stadium was slowly being filled by the crowd.
13. It has been suggested that the shop should close.
14. A knife was used to open the window.
15. Your drinks will be brought in a minute.
16. Nothing was ever heard of John again.
17. I was asked the way three times.
18. Many cars had been parked on the pavement.
19. The boxes have not yet been packed yet.
20. The food is still being prepared.
21. The new ship will be launched next week.
22. The church was built by Christopher Wren in the 17th century.
23. The goal was scored by Beckham in the 35th minute.
24. All main courses are served with vegetables and salad.
25. Harry was pushed over the railing.
