The way you express anything in a letter might significantly alter how the recipient interprets what you're trying to communicate. To ensure clear and successful communication, it's critical to understand when to employ the active and passive voices.
What is it?
The recipient of the action is the main emphasis of passive voice rather than the doer. It's similar to highlighting the object of the action. Saying something like "The package was delivered by the courier" draws emphasis to the fact that the package was delivered.
Using the passive voice might help you come out as professional, courteous, or non-blaming.
The subject of the sentence becomes the primary emphasis when passive voice is used. This may occasionally give the impression that your writing is more impersonal or remote, which isn't always the greatest for effective communication.
Recognizing the active voice
The subject of the action is highlighted while using the active voice. As an example, the phrase "The courier delivered the package" identifies the courier as the one doing the deliver. The active voice is excellent for conveying information quickly, clearly, and who is in charge of the action.
In literature, the active voice is typically favored due to its directness and ability to maintain reader attention. Having a clear picture of who is doing what helps to simplify your messaging.
Alternating between the spoken and written word
How therefore can one transition smoothly between active and passive speech in a letter without confusing the recipient?
Writing your content in the first person and then removing the pronoun "I" will allow you to convert it to an active third-person text. This tip will enable you to write clearly while maintaining a strong voice.
Selecting the appropriate voice
Take into consideration what you want to emphasize, avoid, or convey in each phrase when choosing which voice to utilize.
To improve clarity and engagement, consider employing the active voice in your sentences if you find that you're using the passive voice too often and that it's making them seem ambiguous or distant.
To successfully communicate your point, strike a balance between the active and passive speech. Maintaining consistency in your writing style makes it easier to read and more fluid.
Enhancing the impact of your writing
You may strengthen your writing and successfully communicate with readers by knowing when to utilize the active and passive voice.
Never forget that connecting with your audience and communicating effectively are the main objectives of both active and passive voice. You may improve your communication skills by using each voice appropriately and by practicing.
To sum up
Using the active and passive voices interchangeably in your writing can provide various viewpoints and influence how your point is understood. Your communication will be much more clear and successful if you are aware of these many styles, know when to utilize them, and maintain consistency.
