TOPIC · Verbs (Verben)

Ways to transform passive sentences in German

A2B1B2

Learners will be able to transform passive sentences using alternative active structures in German.

In this lesson, we will explore the different ways to transform passive sentences in German. There are four types of passive alternatives that can be used to express passive meaning through active structures without changing the actual meaning. Let's look at them!

1. Sich lassen + Infinitiv

This structure often replaces the passive with the verb "können". Here’s an example:

PassivePassive Alternative
Das kann so nicht gemacht werden.Das lässt sich so nicht machen.
(That cannot be done in that way.)

2. Sein + zu Infinitiv

This construction is used to replace passive with "können", "nicht dürfen", or "müssen". Examples:

PassivePassive Alternative
Die Arbeiten müssen bis Montag abgeschlossen werden.Die Arbeiten sind bis Montag abzuschließen.
(The work must be completed by Monday.)
Der Kopierer kann nicht mehr repariert werden.Der Kopierer ist nicht mehr zu reparieren.
(The copier can no longer be repaired.)

3. Adjectives with -bar/-abel/-lich

This refers to adjectives formed to replace passive with