In order to describe the opposite or antonyms for the word "make active," one could use terms such as subdue, suppress, immobilize or hinder. When something is made active, it means that it has been energized, stimulated, or encouraged to engage in motion or action. Therefore, the opposite or antonyms of these would be to dampen, dissuade, impede, or incapacitate. These terms would suggest an effort to hamper or prevent something from becoming active or moving. It is important to understand both the positive and negative connotations of words, in order to best articulate exactly what is being communicated.