Language: Why Use Active and Not Passive Language in Your Grant Writing?
- Sauvé MacBean
- Aug 20
- 2 min read
Grant writing isn’t just about presenting facts—it’s about telling a compelling story that grabs the funder’s attention and clearly communicates your vision. One of the easiest ways to elevate your application is by using active language instead of passive language. Let’s dive into why this matters and how it can make your grant proposals stronger.
What Is Active Language?
Active language puts the subject of the sentence in charge, showing clear action and intent. In contrast, passive language makes sentences longer, less direct, and sometimes ambiguous.
Active: “Our team will provide 10 weekly workshops to local youth.”
Passive: “Ten weekly workshops will be provided to local youth by our team.”
The active sentence is more direct, confident, and engaging.
Why Active Language Matters in Grant Writing
Clarity and Simplicity: Active language ensures your sentences are straightforward and easy to understand. Funders often review dozens of applications, and clear writing helps your proposal stand out.
Confidence and Ownership: Active sentences convey a sense of control and responsibility. They show that you are proactive and capable of delivering on your promises.
Example: “We will distribute 500 meals to families in need.” vs. “Five hundred meals will be distributed to families in need.”
Engagement: Funders are more likely to connect with writing that feels dynamic and intentional. Active language draws readers in and keeps them focused on your message.
Efficient Use of Space: Active sentences are often shorter, which helps you stay within word or character limits while still being descriptive.
Tips for Using Active Language
Start With the Subject: Begin sentences with the person or group performing the action.
Active: “Our organization launched a mentorship program.”
Passive: “A mentorship program was launched by our organization.”
Use Strong Verbs: Choose verbs that clearly describe the action and avoid filler words like “is,” “was,” or “will be.”
Strong Verb: “We implemented new outreach strategies.”
Weaker Verb: “New outreach strategies were implemented.”
Avoid Overusing “By” Phrases: Sentences with “by” often indicate passive construction. Reframe these sentences to focus on the subject and action.
Be Intentional: Think about the impact you want your sentence to have and write accordingly. Ensure every word has a purpose.
Examples of Active vs. Passive Language
Active | Passive |
“We trained 50 volunteers last year.” | “Fifty volunteers were trained last year.” |
“Our program empowers local artists.” | “Local artists are empowered by our program.” |
“We raised $10,000 in community donations.” | “$10,000 was raised in community donations.” |
Wrapping It Up
Using active language in your grant applications isn’t just a stylistic choice—it’s a way to present your project with clarity, confidence, and purpose. By focusing on strong, direct sentences, you’ll communicate your vision more effectively and leave a lasting impression on funders.
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