|
A writer can make the reader's task easier by providing the agent, i.e. by telling
the reader who
is doing what.
| Example: A new protein was
discovered. |
>>> |
|
-Scientists from Holland
discovered a new protein. |
|
-The undergraduate student
discovered a new protein. |
|
-The blind doctor discovered
a new protein. |
In general, if the "doer" of a given verb is generic "you" or "one", then passives are
not an issue:
-Dog food can be found at most grocery stores. >>> UNPASSIVIZE >>> One can
find dog food at most grocery stores.
However, if the agent of a passive verb is a specific entity, revise the
sentence and tell readers who the agent is rather than making them infer as much.
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