Resources

'to be' + past participle

We use the passive voice when we want to focus on the experience of a person or object instead of the person who Is doing the action.

• The castle was built in the 10th century.

• The statue of David was made by Michelangelo.

We can use the passive when the person or thing that caused the action is obvious, unknown, unimportant or people in general.

• He was arrested. (obvious)

• Her phone was stolen. (unknown)

• The library was renovated. (unimportant)

• The diplomas were kept in the office. (people in general)

The passive can be used in the:

1. simple present - is/are + past participle

• These books are used by the students.

1. present continuous - is/ are + past participle

•The park is being preserved by a local conservation group.

1. simple past - was/were + past participle

• Latin was taught at the school until last year.

1. past continuous - was being + past participle

• The house was being cleaned while we were on vacation.

1. present perfect - have/has been + past participle

• The house has been sold.

1. past perfect - had been + past participle

•Instructions had been given to all of the participants.

1. future - will be + past participle

• The construction will be finished next month.

1. future perfect - will have been + past participle

• The store will have delivered the new tables by the weekend.