Passive Voice Checker

A passive voice checker finds sentences where the subject receives the action ("the page was updated by us") so you can rewrite them actively ("we updated the page"). Active sentences are shorter and clearer, which suits answer-style writing.

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How to read the result and act on it

The checker highlights sentences that appear passive so you can decide which to rewrite. Look at each flagged sentence and ask who performs the action. If the actor matters, make it the subject: "we updated the page" is clearer than "the page was updated". Keep passive when the actor is unknown or unimportant, or when the receiver of the action is the topic, such as "the form is submitted automatically". Prioritise rewriting instructions, claims and calls to action, where clarity matters most. After editing, read the passage aloud to check the rhythm and that no sentences became repetitive, then run the check again. Aim for text that is direct, not text with zero flags.

Common mistakes to avoid

A frequent mistake is rewriting every flagged sentence mechanically, which can produce awkward or repetitive prose. Passive voice is legitimate in scientific, legal and process writing. Another mistake is trusting the detection fully: patterns based on forms of "to be" plus a past participle can flag adjectives such as "is tired" or miss unusual constructions. Avoid hiding responsibility by using passive in sentences that make claims or admit errors, as readers notice evasion. Do not reduce passive use at the cost of changing the meaning. Finally, avoid using the percentage of passive sentences as a target; a clear draft matters more than a number.

Is passive voice always wrong?

No. It is useful when the doer is unknown or unimportant. Overuse makes writing vague.

Does passive voice affect SEO?

Not directly, but clear active writing is easier to read and to quote.

How do I turn a passive sentence into an active one?

Find who or what does the action, make that the subject, and use an active verb. "The report was written by Anita" becomes "Anita wrote the report". If no actor is named, decide whether to add one.

Is active voice better for readability?

Active sentences are usually shorter and clearer because they name the actor and the action. Passive can still be right when the actor is unknown or the focus belongs on the object.

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