informal 2K

Just passing the time

🇬🇧 UK //dʒʌst ˈpɑːsɪŋ ðə taɪm// 🇺🇸 US //dʒʌst ˈpæsɪŋ ðə taɪm//

Meaning of Just passing the time

Engaging in activities to occupy time without a specific purpose.

In simple words: Doing something to make time go by.

Just passing the time in a sentence

• I was just passing the time while waiting for my friend to arrive.
• He likes just passing the time by playing video games.
• We spent the afternoon just passing the time at the park.
• She was just passing the time by reading a book at the library.
• Instead of being bored, I decided to start just passing the time with some sketches.

How to use Just passing the time

Used in casual conversation to express that an activity is not serious or important. Avoid in formal writing or settings.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine someone waiting at a bus stop, looking at their watch and just passing the time.

Related words

Collocations with Just passing the time

• just passing the time
• passing the time with friends
• often just passing the time

Synonyms for Just passing the time

• killing time
• passing time
• idling
• loitering

Common mistakes with Just passing the time

• Confusing with 'killing time' - similar but slightly different meanings.
• Using it in formal contexts - it's too casual for business discussions.

Frequently asked questions about Just passing the time

What does Just passing the time mean?

Doing something to make time go by.

What is the definition of Just passing the time?

Engaging in activities to occupy time without a specific purpose.

How do you use Just passing the time in a sentence?

I was just passing the time while waiting for my friend to arrive.

Can you give another example of Just passing the time?

He likes just passing the time by playing video games.

What are synonyms for Just passing the time?

Common alternatives include killing time, passing time, idling, loitering.

What words go with Just passing the time?

It commonly pairs with just passing the time, passing the time with friends, often just passing the time.

What are common mistakes when using Just passing the time?

Confusing with 'killing time' - similar but slightly different meanings. Using it in formal contexts - it's too casual for business discussions.

How do you pronounce Just passing the time?

US: //dʒʌst ˈpæsɪŋ ðə taɪm//, UK: //dʒʌst ˈpɑːsɪŋ ðə taɪm//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Just passing the time formal or informal?

"Just passing the time" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Just passing the time?

Used in casual conversation to express that an activity is not serious or important. Avoid in formal writing or settings.