Definition of Pass (meaning 1 of 3 — verb)
Quick Meaning of Pass
To move from one side to the other of a person or place; to go past something.
Detailed Definition of Pass
To go by, move past, or proceed beyond someone or something.
How to Pronounce Pass
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable with short 'a' vowel /æ/ like in 'cat', followed by 'ss' sound.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced with long 'a' /pɑːs/ instead of short /æ/.
Other Meanings of Pass
“Pass” has 3 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 2:
#2 Pass as a verb
To do well enough on a test or assignment to succeed and continue in a course.
pass the exam
#3 Pass as a verb
To give something to someone else; to hand over or transfer something.
pass the ball
Origin and Etymology of Pass
From Old French 'passer', meaning to go through or step over.
How to Use Pass in a Sentence
Each example shows “pass” in the meaning “To move from one side to the other…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I pass the supermarket on my way to work every morning.”
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“Can we pass by the train station to check the schedule?”
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“The runner passed the finish line with excellent speed.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Pass
Common Synonyms for Pass
Smart Synonyms for Pass — When to Use Each
- overtake
- when surpassing someone ahead of you in racing
- bypass
- when intentionally avoiding something on your path
- proceed
- when moving forward past an obstacle
Antonyms of Pass
Common Collocations with Pass
These phrases pair with “pass” in everyday English:
- pass by
- pass through
- pass the house
- pass the test
- pass the baton
Common Mistakes When Using Pass
Even fluent speakers slip up with “pass”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She passed the store without see it.
- ✓ Correct: She passed the store without seeing it.
- Why: After 'without', use gerund form 'seeing', not base verb 'see'.
- ✗ Wrong: I pass the tall building yesterday morning.
- ✓ Correct: I passed the tall building yesterday morning.
- Why: Past time 'yesterday' requires past tense 'passed', not present 'pass'.
Words Confused With Pass
- Pass vs Past: Pass is a verb (action); past is an adjective or preposition (time or direction). Compare →
Other Forms of Pass
Frequently Asked Questions About Pass
What is the meaning of "Pass"?
To move from one side to the other of a person or place; to go past something.
How do you pronounce "Pass"?
The IPA is /pæs/. One syllable with short 'a' vowel /æ/ like in 'cat', followed by 'ss' sound.
What part of speech is "Pass"?
"Pass" is a verb at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Pass"?
Common synonyms include go past, move beyond, overtake.
How do you use "Pass" in a sentence?
For example: "I pass the supermarket on my way to work every morning."