passes - Master This Word
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passes Word Meanings
- to move past someone or something
- to complete a test or course successfully
- to transfer something to someone else
passes Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
passes Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/pɑːs/
US
/pæs/
passes Word Etymology
pass = pass + -s (from Latin 'passare', to step or move). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine someone walking quickly by, unable to stop, signifying the act of passing.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I edge forward, move past the crowd, my shoulders shifting to make room. I focus, push through the tougher questions, and finally pass the test. Back at the desk, I hold the envelope, place the sheet, and pass it to a teammate. The moment feels like a small change in control, a cue that in any situation, pass is about moving, deciding, and keeping the pace.
Real Context
Pass has several related meanings that shape how learners use it. First, to move past someone or something emphasizes crossing in space or time, often with a sense of overtaking, as in passing a car or passing a crowd on the street. Second, to pass a test or course focuses on successful completion and meeting required standards, typically with objects like an exam, a grade, or credits. Third, to pass something to someone else means to transfer or hand over an object or responsibility, usually with permission or instruction. Additionally, pass appears in many phrasal verbs and idioms, such as pass by, pass out, or pass away, with distinct meanings. Learners must watch for collocations, tense, and who is the recipient.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Learn the three core meanings: move past, pass a test, and transfer to someone.
- 2) Master common phrasal verbs: pass by, pass out, pass away.
- 3) Note collocations with exams, grades, and credits.
- 4) Distinguish pass through vs pass by with prepositions.
- 5) Practice listening and speaking to hear nuances.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing pass with past; assuming they always relate to time only.
- Thinking pass means only physically moving past something, ignoring figurative uses.
- Mistaking pass for 'pass by' or 'pass through' in every context.
- Overgeneralizing 'pass' to handing things without specifying recipient.
- Using 'pass' with inappropriate prepositions (e. g., pass to someone incorrectly).
Thinking Differences
For English learners, pass is highly versatile but context-heavy; remember the three core senses and watch for who receives something when you pass it on.
Learning Tips
- 1) Build a small glossary of pass senses and keep example sentences.
- 2) Practice with real-life contexts: exams, road scenes, and handing objects.
- 3) Learn the main phrasal verbs and their nuances.
- 4) Pay attention to prepositions and recipients in transfers.
- 5) Compare pass with past and other near-synonyms to avoid false friends.
- 6) Watch listening materials to hear collocations and pronunciation.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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