When should authors consider using passive voice?

Using passive voice can be particularly effective when the focus of the sentence needs to be on the action itself rather than the subject performing that action. This is important in contexts where the action holds greater significance, such as in scientific writing, technical documentation, or when the subject's identity is either unknown or irrelevant. By placing emphasis on the action, authors can engage the reader's attention to what is being done rather than who is doing it, which can enhance the overall clarity of the intended message.

In contrast, while clarity is important in writing, passive voice can sometimes lead to ambiguity if not used carefully, which doesn't align with the context of focusing solely on clarity. Additionally, concise sentences are typically more effectively achieved with active voice, as active constructions tend to be simpler and more direct. Finally, while passive voice can be present in formal writing, it is not limited to that style; therefore, associating its use strictly with formal writing overlooks its broader applicability.