Passive or active?

Question

Hi MH

Here is an excerpt of my letter to a client.

Thus, I am writing to request for instructions to resume my services in keeping with the contract. If such instructions received by me upon seven days of your receipt of this letter, I will exercise my rights to terminate this agreement.

- Is it more appropriate to use 'are not' in such context?

I could rephrase to this: "If I do not receive your instructions upon seven days..." but don't you think it sounds a little authoritative?

Thanks in advance.

Ed

MountainHiker · Accepted Answer

Hi Ed73,

Your instincts are good.

If I do not receive your instructions within seven (7) days after you receive this letter, I will exercise my right to terminate this agreement.

OR

Should I not receive your instructions within seven (7) days after you receive this letter, I will exercise my right to terminate this agreement.

Always, always, always go active voice. Also, when dealing with contractual stuff, I highly recommend you both spell out and provide the numerical equivalent. I don't want someone whining about poor photocopy or a misprint or whatever. I have been very specific. I gave the number two ways. It also helps you in that you are less likely to make a typo.

Just make sure that you have some way to verify. In other words, if he is going to send his instructions to you, he should use double registered mail or something. You don't want a "he said, she said" argument.

MountainHiker

Passive or active?

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions