Meaning trap
pass on
decline an offer
to decide not to accept something that is offered, such as food, an invitation, or an opportunity.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to decide not to accept something that is offered, such as food, an invitation, or an opportunity.
Another meaning of 'pass on' is 'give or communicate'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- Thanks for the cake, but I'll pass on dessert tonight.daily life
- Sometimes, I have to pass on social events because I need to focus on my studies, especially during exam periods.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: pass on (sth)
WrongI'll pass dessert.
RightI'll pass on dessert.
In this sense it's 'pass ON' something (or just 'I'll pass').
Patternpass on (sth)
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Respectfully decline' is over-formal at a dinner table; 'pass on' is the relaxed 'no thanks'.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
pass on somethingpass onI'll passpass on the offerthink I'll pass
Don't confuse it
Different from 'pass up', which often means missing a good opportunity.
Related
- pass on (give or communicate) — Another meaning of 'pass on' is 'give or communicate'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.