How can i change this from passive voice to active?

Question

or is it ok to be passive?

"Jack was obviously mortified and suffocated by the tension."

Answer 1

I agree with most of what Mr. Lathbury said. But I think the use of the word, "obviously" confers a greater sense of outward mortification. A person can be mortified, yet hide it, while with others it is downright palpable. I like your usage in the sentence and I think to change it would also change your meaning.  

Answer 2

It's fine - leave it alone.

Answer 3

It is ok to be passive (sometimes), but if you want your writing to stand out try mixing it up.

"Jack was obviously mortified, and the tension suffocated him."

Answer 4

What's wrong with the passive? Seems to me Jack is a passive person--more acted upon than acting. Moreover, if in the sentence you want to keep the focus on him, then you need the passive voice.

"The tension mortified and suffocated Jack." That's active, and it changes the center of interest. If it's what you want to do, then use it. I'd cut "obviously." If it's obvious, it isn't worth saying.

Answer 5

Over my head buddy. I'll leave that to Jeanne the Genius. The real question is, can you really do 60 pushups, Because I can and I am 51 years old.