In this lesson, we will explore how to use the passive voice with prepositions in English. Understanding this structure is essential for expressing actions where the focus is on what happens to the subject rather than who performs the action.
What is the Passive Voice?
The passive voice is used when the focus is on the action itself or the object of the action, rather than the person or thing performing it.
It is formed using to be + past participle.
Example:
- Active: They are building a bridge.
- Passive: A bridge is being built.
Passive Voice with Prepositions
Sometimes, verbs in the passive voice are followed by prepositions. These prepositions help clarify relationships between the subject and other elements in the sentence. Below, we’ll cover the most common structures and examples.
Common Verbs Used in Passive with Prepositions
| Verb + Preposition | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Be interested in | The students were interested in the results. |
| Be surprised at/by | She was surprised at the outcome. |
| Be worried about | He was worried about the delay. |
| Be accused of | The manager was accused of negligence. |
| Be blamed for | The driver was blamed for the accident. |
| Be known for | The city is known for its architecture. |
Structure of Passive Sentences with Prepositions
- Subject + to be (in the correct tense) + past participle + preposition + object
- Example: The report was written by the team.
- Subject + to be (in the correct tense) + past participle + preposition + noun/gerund
- Example: The house was damaged by the storm.
Practice Examples
Let’s look at some sentences that use passive voice with prepositions:
Example 1:
- Active: They accused him of theft.
- Passive: He was accused of theft.
Example 2:
- Active: The company blamed the employee for the mistake.
- Passive: The employee was blamed for the mistake.
Example 3:
- Active: People are interested in the project.
- Passive: The project is interesting to people.
Key Points to Remember
- The passive voice shifts the focus from the doer of the action to the action itself or the recipient of the action.
- Prepositions are retained in the passive form and play an important role in maintaining clarity.
- Always ensure that the verb agrees with the subject in number and tense.
Final Thoughts
Mastering the passive voice with prepositions will enhance your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll feel confident using these structures in your everyday conversations!