Active Voice

Definition

Active voice is a grammatical structure where the subject of the sentence performs the action of the verb, creating a clear and direct sentence. This style often enhances clarity and engagement in writing, making it particularly effective in various journalistic contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Using active voice makes writing more vigorous and helps to convey information in a straightforward manner, which is crucial in news reporting.
2. Active voice is often favored in leads because it grabs the reader's attention and establishes immediacy.
3. In crafting effective nut graphs, active voice helps clarify the main point quickly and powerfully, making complex information easier to digest.
4. Headlines written in active voice are generally more impactful, drawing readers in with their directness and clarity.
5. Long-form journalism benefits from active voice by keeping readers engaged through dynamic storytelling that emphasizes the actions of subjects.

Review Questions

• How does using active voice in leads enhance reader engagement?
  • Using active voice in leads enhances reader engagement by presenting information clearly and directly. When the subject performs the action, it creates an immediate connection with readers, making them more likely to continue reading. This direct approach also helps to convey urgency and importance, which are essential for grabbing attention in a crowded media landscape.
• In what ways can active voice improve clarity when crafting nut graphs?
  • Active voice improves clarity in nut graphs by allowing writers to present the main idea in a straightforward manner. It helps avoid confusion that can arise from complex sentence structures often found in passive constructions. By stating who did what directly, readers can quickly grasp the essential message without wading through extra verbiage, making the information more accessible.
• Evaluate the impact of active versus passive voice on long-form journalism and its effectiveness in storytelling.
  • Active voice significantly impacts long-form journalism by creating a narrative that feels alive and engaging, as it focuses on actions taken by subjects rather than actions received. This can enhance emotional connection and immersion for readers, allowing them to visualize events as they unfold. In contrast, passive voice can dilute the storytelling experience by distancing readers from the characters' actions and motivations. Thus, employing active voice effectively can elevate the overall quality and impact of long-form journalism.

Related terms

Passive Voice:

A grammatical construction where the subject of the sentence receives the action of the verb, often making sentences less direct and harder to read.

Subject-Verb Agreement: The grammatical rule that the subject and verb in a sentence must agree in number (singular or plural), ensuring clarity and correctness in writing.

Conciseness:

The quality of being brief and to the point in writing, which can be enhanced by using active voice to eliminate unnecessary words and clarify meaning.