Question

Passive voice is sometimes the best choice when the writer wants to
be perceived as neutral.
avoid blaming anyone.
achieve an action-oriented tone.
avoid sounding bossy

Answer 1

Correct choices: the writer may choose passive voice to
- be perceived as neutral,
- avoid blaming anyone,
- avoid sounding bossy.

Why: passive voice de‑emphasizes or omits the actor, which makes statements seem less personal or less accusatory. Examples:
- Neutral/avoid blame: “Mistakes were made.” (no actor named)
- Avoid bossiness: “The report must be submitted by Monday.” (less directly “You must…”)

Not correct: passive voice does not achieve an action‑oriented tone. Active voice is more action‑oriented and direct (e.g., “The team completed the project,” vs. passive “The project was completed by the team”). Use passive deliberately and sparingly.