Differences between hand down and pass down
Hand down and pass down are both phrasal verbs that refer to giving something to someone else, but hand down usually means to give something to someone who is younger or of a lower rank, while pass down generally means to give something to someone in the same family or community.
Meanings and Definitions: hand down vs pass down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hand down
- 1Pass on to the next generation.
The jewellery has been HANDED DOWN in my family for generations.
- 2Give a formal decision.
The court HANDED DOWN its ruling yesterday.
Pass down
- 1Transmit information or give property to younger generations.
The tales were PASSED DOWN for centuries without changing ay of the words.
Usage Examples: hand down, pass down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hand down
Example
My grandmother handed down her favorite recipes to my mother.
Example
He hands down his old clothes to his younger brother.
pass down
Example
My grandmother passed down her favorite recipes to my mother.
Example
He passes down his woodworking skills to his children.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hand down
To impart knowledge or skills to someone through instruction or example.
Example
My grandfather taught me how to fish when I was a kid.
To transmit or convey information or knowledge to someone.
Example
The professor tried to impart her expertise on the topic to her students during the lecture.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Pass down
To leave something to someone in a will or testament.
Example
Her father bequeathed his antique watch collection to her in his will.
To receive something from someone who has died, especially when it has financial or material value.
Example
She inherited a large sum of money from her late uncle's estate.
Differences in hand down vs pass down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hand down or pass down?
In daily conversation, people use pass down more often than hand down. This is because pass down is used for more personal and emotional contexts such as family traditions or cultural heritage. Hand down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about passing on knowledge or skills from one generation to another. So, while both phrases are used, pass down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hand down and pass down
Hand down and pass down are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hand down and pass down
The tone of hand down and pass down can differ based on context. Hand down often carries a serious or instructional tone when related to knowledge or skills, while pass down typically has a sentimental and nostalgic tone, especially when referring to family traditions or cultural heritage.
