Why is the passive voice often used in formal writing?

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Why is the passive voice often used in formal writing?

The passive voice is often used in formal writing for several reasons. Firstly, it allows the focus to be placed on the object or the receiver of the action rather than the subject or the doer of the action. This can be useful when the writer wants to emphasize the importance of the object or when the subject is unknown or irrelevant. Secondly, the passive voice can create a more objective and impersonal tone, which is often desired in formal writing. It helps to maintain a sense of professionalism and avoids personal bias or opinion. Additionally, the passive voice can be used to soften the impact of negative or critical statements, making them more diplomatic and less confrontational. Lastly, the passive voice can be used to create a sense of formality and sophistication, as it is commonly associated with academic and technical writing. Overall, the passive voice is frequently employed in formal writing to achieve clarity, objectivity, and a professional tone.