Do you know the difference between ‘has been changed’ and ‘has changed’? They may look similar, but they have different meanings.
In this article, you’ll learn what each phrase means and how to use them in sentences. We’ll also provide examples to help you understand the nuances of each phrase and when it is appropriate to use them.
So let’s dive in and explore the difference between ‘has been changed’ and ‘has changed’.
Key Takeaways
- "Has been changed" implies a permanent alteration, while "has changed" suggests a process of change.
- "Has been changed" indicates an intentional end-point to the transformation, whereas "has changed" can mean either finished or ongoing change.
- "Has been changed" signifies a complete alteration, while "has changed" can indicate a partial or partial transformation.
- "Has been changed" implies an external force made the change, whereas "has changed" suggests an internal shift without outside influence.
Definition of ‘Has Been Changed’ and ‘Has Changed’
The difference between ‘has been changed’ and ‘has changed’ is that the former implies a more permanent alteration. When something has been changed, it suggests that the alteration is complete, while something that has changed can still be in a process of change.
For example, if you hear someone say ‘the landscape has been changed,’ you know they mean that it looks different than before and won’t likely change back. On the other hand, if someone says ‘the landscape has changed,’ they could mean either that it’s already finished changing or that it’s currently undergoing transformation.
Thus, when speaking about changes to any given thing or situation, using the phrase ‘has been changed’ signals an intentional end-point to the transformation.
Examples of ‘Has Been Changed’ and ‘Has Changed’
You’ll notice the difference between ‘has been changed’ and ‘has changed’ if you take a closer look. The former is used to indicate that something has switched from its original form into something else, usually through an external force. For example, ‘The traffic laws have been changed in this city.’ Here, the implication is that someone or something outside of the speaker made the change.
On the other hand, ‘has changed’ implies that something shifted through internal means, without any influence from outside forces. An example of this could be: ‘My opinion on this matter has changed.’ This sentence implies that the speaker’s opinion developed over time without being influenced by anyone else.
Grammatical Structures of ‘Has Been Changed’ and ‘Has Changed’
You’re likely aware of the different grammatical structures used for ‘has been changed’ and ‘has changed’.
The former is in the Passive Voice, which means the subject is acted upon by someone or something else. This structure uses the verb “to be” in any form (is, was, has been, etc.) combined with a past participle. For example: “The rules have been changed.’
On the other hand, ‘has changed’ is in Active Voice and shows that the subject is acting on its own. This structure uses a form of “have” plus a past participle. For instance: ‘The rules have changed.’
Understanding these two forms can help you better grasp their meanings and apply them correctly.
Uses of ‘Has Been Changed’ and ‘Has Changed’
They’re both used to explain a shift in the present from how things were in the past. ‘Has been changed’ and ‘has changed’ can be used to describe various changes:
- To illustrate that something has become different due to an outside influence
- To show that a situation has been altered over time
- To emphasize how something was once one way, but is now another.
In each case, these phrases are used to pinpoint an exact moment where change occurred and express it succinctly for readers or listeners. Precise, clear language helps ensure that everyone understands exactly what you mean when referring to change.
Application of ‘Has Been Changed’ and ‘Has Changed’
Making use of contractions like ‘has been changed’ and ‘has changed’ can help people accurately describe changes that have occurred.
Both phrases are used when discussing a change in status or circumstances from what it once was. However, they have different implications.
When using ‘has been changed,’ it implies that an outside force has caused the change. On the other hand, ‘has changed’ implies that the change happened on its own without external influence.
This distinction is important when accurately describing changes because it allows for clarity and understanding of the situation being discussed.
Conclusion
You now know the difference between ‘has been changed’ and ‘has changed.’ While both are used to convey a change in something, they are slightly different.
‘Has been changed’ implies that someone or something was responsible for the change, while ‘has changed’ simply states that a change has occurred without any responsibility attributed.
Knowing when to use each of these phrases correctly can help you communicate more precisely and accurately.