Passive voice (Tetun strongly prefers active)

Correct forms

• Ema halo edifísiu nee (People made the building)

Incorrect forms

• Edifísiu nee halo husi ema (The building was made by people)

Notes

Note

Everyday Tetun prefers active voice with explicit subjects, but formal press/government Tetun does use newer passive-like constructions. Treat this as a register-sensitive style issue, not a universal ban.