Active voice

Definition

Active voice is a grammatical structure where the subject of the sentence performs the action rather than receiving it. This style is preferred in writing because it makes sentences clearer, more direct, and often more engaging for the reader, which is essential in sports reporting and storytelling techniques.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Using active voice helps create a sense of immediacy and excitement in sports reporting, making the action more vivid for readers.
2. In active voice sentences, the subject typically comes before the verb, which contributes to a more straightforward writing style.
3. Active voice can make reports more concise, as it eliminates unnecessary words that can clutter passive constructions.
4. Many sports journalists prefer active voice because it encourages stronger verbs and more dynamic descriptions of events.
5. While passive voice can have its place, especially for emphasizing results over actions, active voice generally enhances engagement and clarity.

Review Questions

• How does using active voice impact the clarity and engagement of sports reporting?
  • Using active voice significantly enhances both clarity and engagement in sports reporting by allowing the subject to perform the action directly. This structure creates more energetic and vivid descriptions of events, making it easier for readers to follow the narrative. By prioritizing action-oriented language, journalists can convey excitement and urgency, which are critical in capturing the essence of sports events.
• Compare the effects of active voice versus passive voice on storytelling in sports journalism.
  • Active voice generally fosters a more direct and engaging narrative compared to passive voice. While active voice puts emphasis on who is doing what, making it lively and impactful, passive voice tends to obscure agency by focusing on the action itself rather than the actor. In sports journalism, this distinction is crucial as an active approach can draw readers into the action, whereas a passive construction may dilute the excitement and urgency inherent in sports stories.
• Evaluate how mastering active voice can enhance a sports reporter's ability to tell compelling stories.
  • Mastering active voice equips sports reporters with a powerful tool to craft compelling narratives that resonate with their audience. By consistently using active constructions, reporters can create vibrant images of athletic performances, highlight key moments dynamically, and maintain a fast-paced rhythm that mirrors the energy of sports. This skill not only improves overall writing quality but also enables reporters to connect with readers on an emotional level, making their stories memorable and impactful.

Related terms

passive voice: A grammatical structure where the subject receives the action rather than performing it, often leading to less clarity and engagement in writing.

subject-verb agreement: The grammatical rule that ensures subjects and verbs in a sentence agree in number, which can enhance clarity and flow.

narrative voice: The style or perspective from which a story is told, impacting how events are presented and perceived by the audience.