Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.
passing
/ˈpɑːsɪŋ/
The word 'passing' can function as both a verb (present participle) and a noun. As a verb, it describes an action in progress (e.g., 'The train is passing'). As a noun, it refers to the act itself (e.g., 'The passing of the bill') or, more commonly and sensitively, as a euphemism for death (e.g., 'his passing'). Be mindful of context when using 'passing' for death; while often considered polite, in some very direct or informal situations, 'dying' might be clearer. The phrase 'passing grade' specifically refers to a score that is sufficient to be considered satisfactory.
Meanings
Moving or causing to move in a specified direction.
"The car is passing now."
Dying.
"His grandfather is passing."
A sweep of something, especially a hand.
"A quick passing of the ball."
Collocations & Compounds
passing grade
A minimum score or mark required to be considered successful in a test, exam, or course.
You need a passing grade to graduate.
passing glance
A brief look at someone or something.
He gave me a quick passing glance.
passing through
Visiting a place temporarily while on a longer journey.
We are just passing through on our way to the coast.
passing comment
A brief remark made casually.
She made a passing comment about the weather.
passing fancy
An interest or liking that is not likely to last.
His interest in knitting was just a passing fancy.
Phrasal Verbs
pass away
To die (a polite euphemism).
Her grandmother passed away peacefully.
pass out
To become unconscious; to faint.
He passed out from the heat.
pass over
To ignore or fail to consider someone or something.
They decided to pass him over for the promotion.
pass by
To go past someone or something.
Did you see the parade passing by?
pass on
To give something to someone else; to die.
Please pass this message on to the team.
Idioms & Sayings
passing the buck
To shift responsibility for something to someone else.
He's always passing the buck instead of doing his job.
a passing phase
Something that is temporary and will soon end.
Don't worry about his mood; it's just a passing phase.
in passing
While not specifically intended or focused on; incidentally.
She mentioned the problem briefly in passing.
passing muster
To meet the required standard; to be found acceptable.
His proposal didn't quite pass muster with the board.
Etymology
The word 'passing' originates from the Old English verb 'passan,' meaning to go, travel, or move onward. This verb itself derives from the Latin 'passare,' meaning to step or walk. The Latin root is linked to 'passus,' meaning a step. Over time, 'passan' evolved through Middle English, retaining its core sense of movement. The 'g' ending in 'passing' is a present participle suffix, indicating an ongoing action. The word's meaning expanded to include metaphorical senses such as the passage of time, the act of dying (a euphemism for the transition from life), and meeting a standard or threshold.