What is the passive voice of never tell a lie?

The passive voice of "Never tell a lie" is "Let a lie never be told."

Understanding the Passive Voice of Commands

Converting imperative sentences (commands or requests) into the passive voice involves a specific grammatical structure. Unlike standard active sentences that focus on the subject performing an action, passive voice shifts the focus to the action itself or the recipient of the action.

How Imperative Sentences Transform to Passive

For most imperative sentences, the passive construction commonly uses "Let + object + be + past participle." This transformation allows the command to remain clear while the grammatical emphasis moves from the implied "you" (the one being commanded) to the item or person being acted upon.

In the case of negative imperatives, such as "Never tell a lie," the negation ("never") is typically inserted between the object and "be" in the passive structure. This ensures the negative command is accurately conveyed in its passive form.

Examples of Imperative Transformations

Here are some common examples illustrating how active imperative sentences are converted into their passive forms:

• Active: Open the door.

• Passive: Let the door be opened.

• Active: Do not disturb him.

• Passive: Let him not be disturbed.

• Active: Always speak the truth.

• Passive: Let the truth always be spoken.

Active vs. Passive Voice in Imperative Statements

The table below highlights the difference between active and passive forms for imperative sentences, including negative commands:

This grammatical transformation is particularly useful when the identity of the person performing the action is less important than the action itself or the subject on which the action is performed.