Business Writing Tips from The Writing Center
Business Grammar - Voice and Mood (2)
March 1, 2007
Wrapping up our rules on
voice and mood:
2.
Do not shift unnecessarily from active to passive voice.
- Use active voice to delineate
responsibility.
Not: Fax
(active)
completed audit forms to Harry. All
questions should
be faxed
(passive) to Sam.
But:
Fax (active)
completed audit forms to Harry.
Fax
(active) all questions to Sam.
3. Use subjunctive mood to state
conditions contrary to fact and to express doubt, regrets, or wishes.
Examples:
If I were
tired,
I would go home.
(contrary to fact)
The meeting
looked as if it
were
almost over. (doubt)
I wish that
I were going
with you.
(wish)
4.
Use subjunctive mood in clauses that express formal demands, motions, or
resolutions.
Example:
I move that the
meeting be
adjourned.
(motion)
To comment on this topic, visit our
Business Writing Tips Forum.
This edition was adapted from our
Business Grammar Program.
Previous editions
may be read at
http://www.uliveandlearn.com/newsletters/index.cfm.
To receive this free weekly newsletter via e-mail, go to
http://www.uliveandlearn.com/userjoin.cfm and select the newsletter option.
Return now to the Business
Communications Library
|