Question

1. He bought Jane a present.
2. Jane was bought a present.
3. A present was bought for Jane.

According to Longman English grammar (which was published long ago, about 30 years ago.), #1 can be changed into #2. What about at present? Is this rule changed or not? When the verb bring is in a sentence, the direct object can be used as the subject in a passive voice sentence according to the grammar book. According to the rule, is #5 grammatical as well? Do we have to use 'to' or 'for' in #6? Are both okay?

4. He brought me a cup.
5. I was brought a cup by him.
6. A cup was brought to/for me by him.

Answer 1

2 is extremely awkward, and I doubt anyone uses it.
1 (active) and 3 (passive) express the same idea.

4 (active) and 6 (passive) express the same idea. 5 is REALLY awkward, and starts to imply that "I was brought" somewhere ... but then the words change. It's best to stick with 4 and 6.

1 and 3
4 and 6

Exclude 2 and 5.