Passive reporting structures, particularly phrases like ‘It is said that…’, are commonly used in English to relay second-hand information. Understanding how to use these structures is essential for learners aiming to achieve fluency in English.
What Are Passive Reporting Structures?
In English, passive reporting structures are used to report statements when the speaker is not the original source of the information. This form is particularly useful in formal contexts, such as news reporting, academic writing, and general storytelling.
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The Structure of Passive Reporting
The most typical form involves an introductory ‘It is’ or ‘They are’ followed by a past participle, frequently ‘said’, ‘believed’, ‘thought’, etc. For example:
- “It is said that the king is very wise.”
- “They are believed to be the best team in the league.”
This structure allows the subject of the reported speech to shift focus from the original source to the person or thing being discussed. More about passive voice can be explored on the Britannica website.
Why Use Passive Reporting Structures?
Using passive reporting can help convey a sense of neutrality, objectivity, or deflect responsibility for the statement. It is often used when the source of the information is unknown or when the speaker wants to downplay the importance of the source.
Examples of Usage
Here are some common examples of passive reporting structures in use:
| Active Sentence | Passive Reporting Sentence |
|---|---|
| “Experts say she is a great leader.” | “It is said that she is a great leader.” |
| “The report confirms that the theory is valid.” | “It is confirmed that the theory is valid.” |
How to Form Passive Reporting Sentences
To form these sentences, the structure usually follows: It/They + be + past participle + that. Here’s how:
- “It is reported that…” – Used when referring to every type of report.
- “They are considered…” – Used when expressing opinions from people collectively.
For a deeper understanding, refer to this Cambridge Dictionary entry on reporting verbs.
Practice with Examples
- “People think he is a genius.” becomes “It is thought that he is a genius.“
- “Journalists allege the company broke the law.” becomes “It is alleged that the company broke the law.“
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The use of passive reporting structures can sometimes be tricky for learners who might confuse them with active voice or direct speech. Here’s a common mistake to watch out for:
- Direct: “The scientists declare that the drug is effective.“
- Misuse: “It’s the scientists declared that the drug is effective.“
- Correct Passive: “It is declared that the drug is effective.” or “The drug is declared to be effective.“
Benefits of Mastering Passive Reporting
Mastering passive reporting structures not only enhances your English language skills but also adds depth to your writing. It allows for a more sophisticated and nuanced expression, often seen in high-quality academic and professional documents.
Statistics on Passive Voice Usage
Research shows that passive voice is frequently used in academic papers to emphasize the action or the recipient of the action rather than the doer. It is a common stylistic choice to achieve a formal tone and precision in scholarly writing.
Case Study: Effectiveness in Legal Writing
In legal documents, the use of passive reporting structures is essential for maintaining objectivity and clarity. By focusing on the action or information presented rather than the individuals involved, legal professionals can ensure impartiality and professionalism in their writing.
Q&A on Passive Reporting
Q: When should I use passive reporting in my writing?
A: Passive reporting is suitable when the focus is on the action or information rather than the specific individual performing the action. It is often used in formal contexts or to convey objectivity.
You can check your English level using the GET Global English Test.
Conclusion
Mastering passive reporting structures is a valuable skill for English language learners. It lends sophistication to your communication and can convey a tone of impartiality. For more on English grammar and style, the Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries is a resourceful site to visit.
