PASS ON

National Parks

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'pass on' means to give something to someone else, such as information, responsibility, or a physical object, carrying forward influence or knowledge.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'pass on' means to give something to someone else, such as information, responsibility, or a physical object, carrying forward influence or knowledge.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The object can be placed between 'pass' and 'on'.
Register
Neutral
Used in both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
It requires a direct object to complete the meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple pass on I pass on the documents to my colleague.
Past Simple passed on She passed on the tradition to her children.
Present Continuous passing on He is passing on valuable knowledge to his students.
Present Perfect have passed on They have passed on the responsibility successfully.

💡 When to Use

Transferring information
Use when sharing or transferring information from one person to another.
Example: "She passed on the news to everyone at the meeting."
Handing down traditions
Use when referring to the act of handing down cultural or familial traditions.
Example: "The recipe has been passed on for generations."
Giving responsibility
Use when discussing the transfer of responsibilities or duties to another person.
Example: "He passed on his managerial duties to his successor."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect object placement
❌ Wrong: He passed the message on to.
✅ Correct: He passed on the message.
💡 Tip: The object can come after 'pass on' or between.
Omission of object
❌ Wrong: She passed on to her colleague.
✅ Correct: She passed on the report to her colleague.
💡 Tip: Always include what is being passed on.
Wrong tense usage
❌ Wrong: I pass on your regards yesterday.
✅ Correct: I passed on your regards yesterday.
💡 Tip: Ensure verb tense matches context.
Practice

PASS ON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

convey transmit

Antonyms

keep

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"She decided to ___ on the family heirloom to her nephew."

walk
pass on
carry
drop

"As the torch of wisdom is passed on, each generation adds its flame, ensuring the light of knowledge never dims."

In Context

In the early 19th century, the abolitionist movement in America gained momentum, as advocates tirelessly worked to pass on their message of equality and freedom. Among these trailblazers was Frederick Douglass, an escaped slave who became a brilliant orator and writer. Douglass used his eloquence to pass on harrowing accounts of slavery’s brutality, capturing the nation's attention. He traveled extensively, speaking at rallies and conventions, eager to pass on not just stories, but the urgent need for systemic change. His speeches inspired many to join the abolitionist cause, infusing the movement with renewed determination. Douglass's impact was palpable at the 1848 Seneca Falls Convention, where he helped pass on the message of women's rights alongside suffragists like Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Even after the Civil War, Douglass continued to pass on lessons about equality and justice, advocating for African American rights during Reconstruction. His tireless advocacy paved the way for future civil rights movements, his teachings echoed through generations. Douglass's legacy is a testament to the power of passing on knowledge and passion, demonstrating how one individual's efforts can ignite widespread change.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Pass On

What is the origin of pass on?

+
Originating from the idea of physically 'passing' something, it evolved to include non-tangible items like information and responsibilities.

Can pass on be used in formal and informal contexts?

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Yes, 'pass on' is versatile and can be used in both formal settings, like business or academia, and informal contexts, such as casual conversation.

What is the difference between pass on and convey?

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While both refer to transferring information, 'pass on' implies a broader scope, including responsibilities or traditions, while 'convey' is more formal and specific to ideas.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

hand downtransfersharetransmitrelay
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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