A2verb1K

Pass

UK /["/pɑːs/","/ˈpɑːsɪz/","/pɑːst/","/ˈpɑːsɪŋ/"]/US /["/pæs/","/ˈpæsɪz/","/pæst/","/ˈpæsɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to achieve the required standard in an exam, a test, etc.

In simple words: To move past something or someone, or to allow something to happen.

Examples

  • I will pass the ball to you during the game.
  • Please pass me the salt at the dinner table.
  • He decided to pass on the opportunity to travel abroad.
  • The student was thrilled to pass the exam with good grades.
  • If you want to get through security, you need to pass your ID.
  • They plan to pass by the new cafe on their way to work.
  • She chose to pass the time by reading a book.
  • You should pass this message along to your colleagues.

Usage notes

Commonly used in both casual and formal contexts. Can refer to physical movement or to allowing someone to take a turn (e.g., in games). Not typically used in very formal writing when describing decisions.

Grammar pattern

pass + object

Memory hint

Think of a runner passing another runner in a race — they move past each other.

Collocations

  • quickly
  • rapidly
  • soon
  • help (to)
  • quickly
  • rapidly
  • soon
  • help (to)
  • unanimously
  • overwhelmingly
  • narrowly
  • by… to…
  • peacefully
  • come to
  • let something
  • between
  • pass unnoticed

Synonyms

  • move past
  • let go
  • allow
  • permit
  • transfer

Antonyms

  • stop
  • hold
  • block

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'pass' with 'past' in writing.
  • Using 'pass' without an object when it requires one.
  • Mixing up the different meanings of 'pass' in verbal contexts.