Read the following sentence.
People say that he is a criminal.
Can we change this sentence into the passive? Yes, we can.
He is said to be a criminal. (NOT That he is a criminal is said by people.)
They say these nuts are good for health. (Active)
These nuts are said to be good for health. (Passive)
They believe him to be dangerous. (Active)
He is believed to be dangerous. (Passive)
Exercise
Change the following sentences into the passive.
1. They say that he is a strict disciplinarian.
2. People believe that he is in favour of the change.
3. People say that this plant is a remedy for cancer.
4. They say that his company is in trouble.
5. They told us not to come back.
6. They say that these kinds of dogs are very aggressive.
7. They did not allow me to visit my husband.
Answers
1. He is said to be a strict disciplinarian.
2. He is believed to be in favour of the change.
3. This plant is said to be a remedy for cancer.
4. His company is said to be in trouble.
5. We were told not to come back.
6. These kinds of dogs are said to be very aggressive.
7. I was not allowed to visit my husband.