Pass: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
October 9, 2025

1. Pass (verb): To move past or go beyond something or someone.
2. Pass (verb): To succeed in an examination, test, or evaluation.
3. Pass (verb): To transfer or deliver something, especially an object, to another person.
4. Pass (noun): A narrow route through mountains or other difficult terrain.
5. Pass (noun): A document or authorization allowing access or movement.

"Pass" can mean to move past something, hand something over, or succeed in a test or challenge. It is used in many settings, from sports and travel to academics and daily life. The word can also be a noun, such as a ticket or a mountain gap. Discover how "pass" connects to movement, success, and permission in English.

"Pass" Definition: What Does "Pass" Mean?

The term "pass" is used in a wide variety of situations, reflecting its adaptability. Here are its primary definitions.

Definition of "Pass": To Move Beyond

As a verb, "pass" means to go by or move beyond something or someone. This usage is common in physical and metaphorical contexts, such as passing a milestone or passing through a crowd.

Definition of "Pass": To Succeed

"Pass" is frequently used to denote success in an examination, test, or evaluation. It implies achieving the required standard or grade.

Definition of "Pass": To Transfer

Another common usage of "pass" is to transfer an object or responsibility to another person, such as passing a ball in sports or passing a note in class.

Definition of "Pass": A Narrow Route

As a noun, "pass" can refer to a narrow route through mountains or difficult terrain, such as a mountain pass used for travel or exploration.

Definition of "Pass": An Authorization

"Pass" also describes a document or form of authorization that allows someone to enter a restricted area or use specific services, like a bus pass or an all-access pass.

Parts of Speech

"Pass" serves mainly as a verb, meaning to go by, transfer, or succeed, as in "pass the salt" or "pass the exam." As a noun, it can refer to a document that grants access or a physical space like a "mountain pass." The word appears in multiple idiomatic expressions and has broad grammatical flexibility.

How to Pronounce "Pass"?

The word "pass" is pronounced as "PAS," rhyming with words like "class," "grass," and "mass," using a single syllable with a short "a" sound. Begin with a clear "p" sound by pressing your lips together and releasing them quickly, then immediately follow with the "as" sound that's identical to the word "ass" but with the "p" at the beginning. The vowel sound should be crisp and short, avoiding any elongation that might make it sound like "pause."

Phonetic Pronunciation: /pæs/

Synonyms of "Pass": Other Ways to Say "Pass"

Understanding synonyms for "pass" can enrich communication by offering alternative expressions. Here are some examples:

  • Go
  • Move
  • Succeed
  • Advance
  • Transfer
  • Hand
  • Permit
  • Route
  • Authorization
  • Achievement

Antonyms of "Pass": Other Ways to Say "Pass"

Antonyms for "pass" highlight concepts of failure, immobility, or retention. Some examples include:

  • Fail
  • Stop
  • Block
  • Retain
  • Reject
  • Halt
  • Lose
  • Stay
  • Detain
  • Decline

Examples of "Pass" in a Sentence

Using "pass" in various contexts demonstrates its range of meanings. Here are ten examples:

  1. The hiker struggled to cross the steep mountain pass.
  2. She managed to pass her driving test on the first attempt.
  3. Please pass me the salt at the dinner table.
  4. The team executed a brilliant pass to score the winning goal.
  5. We need to pass through security before boarding the plane.
  6. His pass allowed him entry into the restricted area.
  7. The law was finally passed after much debate in parliament.
  8. He decided to pass on the opportunity to study abroad this year.
  9. The train will pass through several small towns on its way to the city.
  10. Her jokes fell flat, but she was kind enough to let it pass.

Frequency of Use

The word "pass" is widely used in English, both in everyday conversation and specialized contexts such as sports, education, transportation, and politics. Its frequency reflects its adaptability, making it an essential part of the language.

Variants of "Pass"

"Pass" has several variants and related forms that adapt its meaning for different grammatical or contextual uses:

  1. Passed (verb): The past tense of "pass," indicating completed action.
  2. Passing (verb/noun): Refers to the act of moving or transferring something.
  3. Passable (adjective): Describes something that can be passed through or is acceptable.

Related Terms to "Pass"

Here are some terms related to "pass" that expand its conceptual network:

  1. Permit
  2. Transfer
  3. Route
  4. License
  5. Achievement
  6. Transit
  7. Approval
  8. Success
  9. Authorization
  10. Checkpoint

Etymology: History and Origins of "Pass"

The word "pass" originates from the Old French term passer, meaning "to go past" or "to cross." Its roots trace back to the Latin passare, derived from passus, meaning "step" or "stride." First recorded in English in the 14th century, "pass" initially described physical movement but evolved to encompass broader meanings, including success, transfer, and authorization.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Pass"

Here are derivatives and compounds of "pass" that expand its applications:

  1. Bypass: To avoid or circumvent something.
  2. Overpass: A bridge or elevated road passing over another.
  3. Underpass: A tunnel or passage beneath a road or railway.
  4. Passer: Someone or something that passes, often used in sports.

Common Misspellings of "Pass"

Here are some common misspellings of "pass":

  1. Pas
  2. Passs
  3. Pazz

10 Idioms Similar to "Pass"

Idioms involving "pass" often describe transition, success, or avoidance. Here are 10 examples:

  1. Pass the buck
  2. Pass with flying colors
  3. Pass the time
  4. Pass muster
  5. Let it pass
  6. Pass the hat
  7. Give someone a pass
  8. Pass on
  9. Pass the torch
  10. Take a pass

10 Common Questions About "Pass"

1. What does "pass" mean as a verb?

As a verb, "pass" means to move beyond, succeed, or transfer something.

2. Can "pass" be a noun?

Yes, as a noun, "pass" can refer to a route, authorization, or an opportunity.

3. What is the past tense of "pass"?

The past tense of "pass" is "passed."

4. How is "pass" used in sports?

In sports, "pass" often refers to transferring the ball or puck to a teammate.

5. What does "pass with flying colors" mean?

This idiom means to succeed spectacularly or with high distinction.

6. What is a mountain pass?

A mountain pass is a navigable route through a mountainous region.

7. Can "pass" mean "die"?

Yes, "pass" is sometimes used as a euphemism for dying, such as "passed away."

8. What is a bypass?

A bypass is a route or method used to avoid something, such as traffic or an obstacle.

9. What is a bus pass?

A bus pass is a ticket or card allowing unlimited rides on public buses for a set period.

10. What does "pass the buck" mean?

To "pass the buck" means to shift responsibility to someone else.

Conclusion

The word "pass" is versatile, covering actions, outcomes, and objects across diverse contexts. From achieving success to navigating a route, it is an essential word with significant practical value. Embrace its meanings to enhance your communication skills and explore more definitions to deepen your vocabulary.

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