passive — accepting or allowing what happens without active response or resistance
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: accepting or allowing what happens without active response or resistance
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpæsɪv/
Example Sentences
- My cat is so passive that it doesn't even chase the laser pointer - it just watches it with mild interest.
- Students should not be passive learners but active participants in class.
- His passive response to criticism made everyone think he was either very wise or very sleepy.
passive
ADJECTIVE[/ˈpæsɪv/]
accepting or allowing what happens without active response or resistance
Accepting or allowing action rather than initiating it
The passive observer simply watched events unfold. (PASS + WAIT = PASSIVE → letting things happen instead of acting)
Don't stay passive—be active and proactive.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin passivus, which itself comes from pati, meaning 'to suffer' or 'to endure.' The term evolved to describe a state of receiving or accepting action rather than initiating it, reflecting the sense of undergoing or being subjected to something.
Breakdown
pass- (from pati, 'to suffer, endure') + -ive (adjective suffix indicating a quality or state), literally 'capable of suffering or being acted upon.'
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat is so passive that it doesn't even chase the laser pointer - it just watches it with mild interest.”
“Students should not be passive learners but active participants in class.”
“His passive response to criticism made everyone think he was either very wise or very sleepy.”
“Passive investment strategies often outperform active trading.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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