Border Patrol Practice Exam

What is the voice of the construction "She has been taking"?

1. Active

2. Passive

3. Neither

4. Both

The correct answer is: Active

The phrase "She has been taking" exemplifies an active voice because the subject "She" is performing the action of taking something. In this construction, the focus is on the subject and their direct involvement in the action, which is a defining characteristic of active voice. Active voice constructions emphasize the agent of the action, where the subject acts upon the object. This contrasts with passive voice, where the subject is acted upon or where the agent may be omitted. The phrase given does not convey any passive action or a condition where the subject receives the action; rather, it consistently maintains an active role. Understanding the nuances of active and passive constructions is crucial for clear communication, especially in writing where clarity and directness are valued. It's also important to recognize that neither nor both does not apply here since the phrase distinctly fits into the active category based on its structure.