How to Use the Passive Voice in Romanian for English Speakers

What is the Passive Voice in Romanian?

The passive voice in Romanian is used to emphasize the action or the recipient of the action rather than the doer. It is similar to English passive constructions like "The book is read by the student." Understanding how to form and use the passive voice is essential for expressing ideas clearly in Romanian.

How to Form the Passive Voice in Romanian

Romanian passive voice is typically formed using the verb a fi (to be) plus the past participle of the main verb. The past participle agrees in gender and number with the subject.

For example, the verb a citi (to read) in passive voice:

- Masculine singular: Este citit (He/It is read)
- Feminine singular: Este citită (She/It is read)
- Masculine plural: Sunt citiți (They are read)
- Feminine plural: Sunt citite (They are read)

Examples of Passive Voice Sentences

- Cartea este citită de student. (The book is read by the student.)
- Scrisorile sunt trimise de poștaș. (The letters are sent by the postman.)

Using the Reflexive Passive in Romanian

Romanian also uses a reflexive passive construction with the pronoun se. This form is common and often used instead of the verb a fi plus past participle.

For example:

- Se vând mere. (Apples are sold.)
- Se construiește o casă. (A house is being built.)

This construction is very useful and frequently used in everyday Romanian.

Differences Between English and Romanian Passive Voice

While English often uses the passive voice with "to be" plus past participle, Romanian offers two main ways: the a fi + past participle form and the reflexive se construction. The reflexive passive is more common in spoken Romanian.

Practice Examples

Try converting these active sentences into passive voice in Romanian:

1. Elevul scrie o scrisoare. (The student writes a letter.)
2. Profesorul explică lecția. (The teacher explains the lesson.)
3. Muncitorii repară drumul. (The workers repair the road.)

Common Past Participles for Passive Voice

Tips for Mastering Romanian Passive Voice

• Remember to match the past participle with the subject's gender and number.
• Use the reflexive se construction for common, everyday passive sentences.
• Practice by translating English passive sentences into Romanian.
• Listen to native speakers to hear how passive voice is used naturally.