Use The Correct Form Of The Passive

Skill

Use The Correct Form Of The Passive

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One way that the passive can be tested on the TOEFL test is simply with an incorrect form of the passive. The following are examples of passive errors that might appear on the TOEFL test:

The portrait was painting* by a famous artist.
The project will finished* by Tim.

In the first example, the passive is formed incorrectly because the past participle painted should be used rather than the present participle painting. In the second example, the verb be has not been included, and some form of be is necessary for a passive verb. The verb in the second sentence should be will be finished.

The following chart outlines the way to form the passive correctly:

THE FORM OF THE PASSIVE

BE + past participle (BY + object)

Exercise

Complete the following exercises to reinforce what you’ve learned:

Each of the following sentences has a passive meaning. Underline twice the verbs that should be passive. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

  1. ___ The boy had never be stung by a bee.
  2. ___ The suits were hung in the closet when they were returned from the cleaners.
  3. ___ Money is lending by the credit union to those who want to buy homes.
  4. ___ The record had been chose by dancers near the jukebox.
  5. ___ The topic for your research paper should have been approved by your advisor.
  6. ___ That song has been playing over and over again by Steve.
  7. ___ Their utility bills have been increased again and again.
  8. ___ The patients who are too sick to sit up are being assisted by the orderlies.
  9. ___ The offices were thoroughly clean last evening by the night crew.
  10. ___ The car that was struck in the intersection yesterday is being repaired today.

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