Search from various English teachers...
Pelin
Can I use these two interchangeably?
I scalded my tongue with hot tea.
My tongue is scalded with hot tea.
Feb 13, 2026 9:55 PM
Answers · 3
Be aware that, while one is active voice and the other passive, they are also different tenses. I scalded my tongue with hot tea - past tense, happened one time.
My tongue is scalded with hot tea - present tense, happens regularly (so a weird thing to say).
Feb 14, 2026 7:12 PM
Invitee
Yes they are both acceptable as one of them is active and one is passive!
Feb 14, 2026 2:12 AM
Invitee
"I scalded my tongue with hot tea" is the active voice. The second sentence is passive voice.
The meaning is the same, but most people prefer the active voice. Especially in writing. Why? It is clearer and easier to understand. In this case, we may use the second sentence if the focus is on the burn in your mouth, and less on the action itself.
Feb 13, 2026 10:53 PM
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!
Pelin
Language Skills
English, Turkish
Learning Language
English
Articles You May Also Like

Why "General English" is Failing Your Career (An Engineer’s Perspective)
10 likes · 7 Comments

Why Many Kids Struggle With English - and How the Right Tutor Makes a Difference
2 likes · 2 Comments

Why “Just Around the Corner” Is (Usually) a Lie
9 likes · 6 Comments
More articles
