passively
Translation
passively
Examples
He watched the argument passively.
He watched the argument passively.
The law was passively accepted by the public.
The law was passively accepted by the public.
Grammar Patterns
((verb)) passively to modify a verb He watched the argument passively.
Similar Words
Synonyms: inactively, submissively; Antonyms: actively, assertively
Etymology
From 'passive' + the adverbial suffix '-ly'. 'Passive' comes from Latin 'pati' meaning 'to suffer, endure'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'passing' on an action, letting something happen without getting involved.