Language/French/Grammar/on-as-an-alternative-to-the-English-passive
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on as an alternative to the English passive
A construction with on can often be used where a passive is used in English:
- On croyait la crise du logement définitivement réglée
The housing shortage was definitely thought to be over
- On ne soupçonne guère le véritable rôle économique joué par les enfants
The real economic role that children play is thoroughly underestimated
- On sait qu'il a eu des démêlés avec la police, mais on ne sait pas pourquoi
It is well known that he was once in trouble with the police, but it is not known why