Active Voice

Definition

Active voice is a grammatical structure where the subject of the sentence performs the action rather than receiving it. In writing for audio, using active voice helps to create a more direct and engaging connection with the audience, making the information clearer and more impactful. This style is particularly important in broadcasting, as it reflects immediacy and liveliness, drawing listeners into the narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Active voice makes sentences stronger by placing the subject first, making the action clear and immediate for the listener.
2. Using active voice reduces ambiguity, ensuring that listeners know who is doing what without confusion.
3. In broadcast writing, sentences in active voice are typically shorter and easier to understand, which helps maintain listener attention.
4. Active voice is crucial for storytelling in news reports, as it adds energy and urgency to the narrative.
5. Writers who master active voice can create more persuasive and compelling content, which is essential for effective communication in audio formats.

Review Questions

• How does using active voice improve clarity and engagement in audio writing?
  • Using active voice significantly improves clarity and engagement by making it clear who is performing the action in a sentence. This directness eliminates confusion for the listener and helps them follow along with the narrative more easily. When audiences hear active constructions, they are more likely to feel involved in the story being told, enhancing their overall listening experience.
• What are some common mistakes writers make when trying to use active voice, and how can these be avoided?
  • Writers often mistakenly slip into passive voice or overly complex structures that dilute their message when aiming for active voice. To avoid this, they should focus on identifying the subject of their sentences and ensure that it is placed at the beginning. Additionally, keeping sentences concise and straightforward can help maintain an active tone, making it easier to engage listeners effectively.
• Evaluate how the use of active voice can influence the effectiveness of storytelling in broadcast journalism.
  • The use of active voice in broadcast journalism can greatly enhance storytelling by creating a sense of immediacy and urgency that captivates listeners. When stories are told using active constructions, they often feel more dynamic and real, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with the content. This effectiveness is crucial in journalism, where delivering information in an engaging manner can influence public perception and understanding of events.

Related terms

Passive Voice: A grammatical structure where the subject receives the action rather than performing it, often leading to less engaging writing.

Conciseness: The quality of being clear and brief in communication, which is enhanced by using active voice.

Subject-Verb Agreement: The grammatical rule that the subject and verb must agree in number and person, important for clarity in active voice constructions.