passive role
[/ˈpæsɪv roʊl/]
nounpl: passive roles
papel passivo
1. a position or function in which someone is not actively participating, initiating, or making decisions, but rather receiving or responding to actions of others
She took a passive role in the meeting, listening but not contributing any ideas.
Ela assumiu um papel passivo na reunião, ouvindo mas não contribuindo com ideias.
2. in grammar and linguistics, a grammatical construction where the subject receives the action rather than performing it
The sentence 'The cake was eaten by the children' uses a passive role for the noun 'cake'.
A sentença 'O bolo foi comido pelas crianças' usa um papel passivo para o substantivo 'bolo'.
3. in relationships or social contexts, a subordinate or non-dominant position
He preferred to take a passive role in the relationship, letting his partner make the major decisions.
Ele preferiu assumir um papel passivo no relacionamento, deixando sua parceira tomar as decisões principais.
In both American and Brazilian cultures, 'passive role' often carries a slightly negative connotation in professional and leadership contexts, where active participation and initiative are typically valued. However, in some cultural and family dynamics, a passive role may be culturally expected or accepted, particularly in traditional hierarchical structures. The term is frequently used in workplace discussions, psychology, relationship counseling, and educational settings.
NYC Slang
riding the bench, being on the sidelines, playing it cool without getting involved
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