passive
Adjective
Easy difficulty
What does “passive” mean?
adjective.accepting or allowing what happens or what others do, without active response or resistance.
SAT Usage
the term often appears in passages discussing social dynamics, psychology, or literature, highlighting a lack of agency or control in a character's situation. It emphasizes a state of submission or inaction, contrasting with active resistance or engagement, and is distinct from words like "compliant," which may suggest a more willing acquiescence rather than a passive acceptance of circumstances.
Common Confusions
Passive implies a lack of active response or resistance to circumstances, while compliant usually suggests a willing acquiescence to rules or requests, indicating a more active agreement.
Example Sentences
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He remained passive during the protest.