Overview
Advanced passive reporting uses formal structures to express beliefs or expectations: It is widely acknowledged that…, The situation is said to have worsened, Rates are reported to have increased. The perfect infinitive (to have + past participle) is used when reporting about past events.
It + Passive + That-Clause
- PresentIt is believed that negotiations are ongoing.
- PastIt was reported that the minister had resigned.
- PerfectIt has been suggested that further cuts are planned.
- ModalIt is widely understood that the policy will be revised.
Subject + Passive + Infinitive
- PresentShe is believed to be the leading candidate.
- PastHe is said to have resigned under pressure.
- OngoingThey are thought to be negotiating a settlement.
- Verbssay, believe, think, report, allege, understand, know, consider
Form Precision
- Present reference: is said to be / Past: is said to have been
- ❌ It is said him to have left → ✅ He is said to have left
- Both forms are inter-transformable — academic writing uses both.
When to use
News / journalism
It is alleged that the official misappropriated public funds.
Academic writing
It is widely assumed that the correlation implies causation.
Legal contexts
The defendant is alleged to have acted with intent.
Corporate reports
The firm is reported to be considering a merger.