This example it is therefore about 'is' + 'laid'. Besides Country Email List the fact that this language makes the sentence longer, the passive form is not recommended for another reason. In passive sentences you often miss the person who is performing an action. Country Email List The article is being finalized . Who is putting the finishing touches to the article? 'Elsemieke' has disappeared here. This makes the sentence impersonal and/or distant. Making passive sentences Country Email List active To make a passive sentence active, it can therefore help to ask yourself: 'by whom?' The answer to the question is the subject you can use for your active sentence. OnzeTaal also shares a good example, in which Country Email List you can clearly see this difference: I will contact you within 3 working days. You will be contacted within 3 days. Which sentence appeals to you more? Even though it is only such a small difference. Using Country Email List a passive or passive sentence in your text now and then is of course no Country Email List problem. Sometimes it just reads really nice as a change. Or does it suit your writing style. But if you Country Email List want to keep the text smooth and short, I would recommend to delete it where possible. Also read: 6 words you should delete better: final editing tips I also regularly catch myself using passive sentences. If you are enjoying writing, you think about it less 'actively. Only in the final editing do you find ou t Country Email List that it can be a lot more active. Always proofread your text! 2 more examples: The telephones can continue to be used . We can continue to use the phones. The books are made available . The Country Email List books are available. woolly language In addition to unnecessary passive language use, we often see woolly or unnecessary language in the editorial office. Sentences that can be a lot shorter, Country Email List without changing the meaning of the sentence. Or unnecessary difficult words.