What defines active voice in a sentence?

Active voice in a sentence is defined by the structure where the subject performs the action. This means the focus is on the subject who is executing the verb, creating a direct and engaging sentence. For example, in the sentence "The dog chased the ball," the subject "the dog" is actively performing the action of chasing, which makes the sentence clear and concise.

By contrast, other options refer to different constructions such as passive voice where the action is received by the subject, which would not embody the concept of active voice. In passive constructions, the focus shifts away from the doer of the action, often leading to sentences that can be less direct and harder to follow. Understanding this fundamental aspect of sentence structure is essential for effective communication and clarity in writing.