How to Use Passive Voice in Danish

Understanding Passive Voice in Danish

In Danish, the passive voice is used similarly to English. It shifts the focus from the subject performing the action to the object receiving the action. Passive sentences often highlight the action itself rather than the doer.

Constructing the Passive Voice

The passive voice in Danish is formed primarily in two ways: using the suffix -s or through the use of blive (to become) combined with the past participle of the main verb.

Using -s Passive

To form the passive voice with -s, add the suffix to the infinitive form of the verb. This approach is most commonly used in present and past tenses.

Using Blive Passive

The blive passive is similar to the English structure 'to be' plus the past participle. It's more versatile and can be used for various tenses and moods.

Common Uses of Passive Voice

The passive voice is widely used for instructions, formal writing, and when the doer of the action is unknown or irrelevant.

Examples in Context

Consider the following examples to see passive voice usage in everyday Danish context.

Tips for Mastering Passive Voice

To better grasp the passive voice in Danish, practice by converting active sentences into passive and vice versa. Also, listen to Danish conversations to hear how native speakers use passive constructions.