Which of the following options is the most suitable conversion of the following sentence into active voice?
The lights are to be switched off when you leave.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
Switch off the lights when you leave.
Explanation
The sentence "The lights are to be switched off when you leave" is in the passive voice and expresses an instruction or obligation. Its most suitable active voice form is the imperative sentence "Switch off the lights when you leave." The subject "you" is understood in imperative sentences, making the instruction direct and natural.
The other options are incorrect. "You will switch the lights off..." changes the meaning from an instruction to a future action. "The lights should be switched off..." remains in the passive voice. "Switched off the lights..." is grammatically incorrect because it lacks an auxiliary verb and does not form a complete sentence.
Key Point
When a passive sentence expresses an instruction, order, or command, its active voice is often written as an imperative sentence. Imperative sentences begin with the base form of the verb and usually have an implied subject "you."