Practice the passive with reporting verbs like it is said that through clear B1+ level exercises with answers and explanations.
The Passive with Reporting Verbs: It is said that … Exercises
We often use reporting verbs in English to talk about what people say, believe, or think. This is especially true when we don’t know who the speaker is or when the speaker isn’t important. The passive voice with reporting verbs, like “it is said that,” is a common structure.
What are reporting verbs?
Verbs that report opinions, beliefs, or statements are called reporting verbs. The most common ones in this structure are:
- say
- think
- believe
- know
- expect
- report
When we use these verbs in the passive voice, the information is more important than the person who said it.
Structure: It is said that …
We use it with a passive reporting verb and a that-clause to talk about general information or rumors.
Form
- It + be + past participle + that + subject + verb
Examples
- It is said that this building is over 300 years old.
- It is believed that the company will close next year.
- It is thought that she lives abroad.
This structure is common in news articles, formal writing, and academic English.
Tense use
The tense of “be” changes depending on when the report is written.
Present
- It is said that the train is delayed.
Past
- It was reported that several people were injured.
Perfect
- It has been announced that the meeting is cancelled.
Alternative structure: He is said to …
Another common way to use reporting verbs in the passive voice is with an infinitive.
Examples
- He is said to be very rich.
- The actor is believed to have left the country.
People or things are usually the subject of the report, not the whole situation.
It is said that vs He is said to
| Structure | Focus |
|---|---|
| It is said that… | The situation or information |
| He is said to… | The person or thing |
Compare:
- It is believed that the scientist made a mistake.
- The scientist is believed to have made a mistake.
Both sentences have a similar meaning, but the focus is different.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not use the active form with people
Incorrect: People say that the weather will change.
Correct: It is said that the weather will change. - Do not forget the passive form
Incorrect: It is say that he is innocent.
Correct: It is said that he is innocent.
When we don’t know who said something or it doesn’t matter, we use the passive with reporting verbs to talk about general opinions, rumors, or beliefs. People say that this structure is formal and often used in news and written English.
