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passive

/ˈpæsɪv/ adjective, verb · British & US
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What does passive mean?

adjective, verb

Not actively engaged in an activity; not taking the initiative. A verb form in which the recipient of the action is the subject of the sentence.

Example

"The ball was thrown by John. The play was written by Shakespeare."

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Etymologically related

Synonyms for passive

Antonyms of passive

Rhymes with passive