"should be signed" vs "should sign"

Question

"should be signed" vs "should sign"

Both "should be signed" and "should sign" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Should be signed" is passive voice, indicating that the action of signing will be done by someone or something else. On the other hand, "should sign" is active voice, indicating that the subject is expected to perform the action of signing.

Last Updated: March 24, 2024

This phrase is used in passive voice to indicate that someone or something else is expected to perform the action of signing. It is often used when talking about documents, contracts, or agreements.

Examples:

The contract should be signed by both parties.
The permission slip should be signed by a parent or guardian.
The form should be signed and returned by Friday.
The agreement should be signed electronically.
The petition should be signed by as many people as possible.

Alternatives:

needs to be signed
must be signed
is required to be signed
ought to be signed
has to be signed

This phrase is used in active voice to indicate that the subject is expected to perform the action of signing. It is often used when giving instructions or recommendations.

Examples:

You should sign the document before the deadline.
She should sign the contract as soon as possible.
He should sign the agreement to confirm his participation.
The manager should sign off on the proposal.
The student should sign up for the workshop.

Alternatives:

needs to sign
must sign
is required to sign
ought to sign
has to sign

Answer 1

should be signed

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially in contexts where the subject is not the one performing the action of signing.

Answer 2

should sign

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English, especially in contexts where the subject is expected to perform the action of signing.

"should be signed" vs "should sign"

should be signed

should sign

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