What are the definitions of “pass as”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Be believed to be something.
Although not qualified, he managed to PASS AS a doctor for years.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pass as”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pass as is to be believed or accepted as something or someone else, often by pretending or appearing to be that thing or person. It is often used when someone is trying to deceive others or hide their true identity.
What are the different verb forms of “pass as”?
| Root Verb | pass as |
| Third Person Singular Present | passes as |
| Present Participle | passing as |
| Simple Past | passed as |
| Past Participle | passed as |
Example
She can pass as a native speaker because her accent is perfect.
Example
He passes as a professional athlete, even though he's never played professionally.
Example
They are passing as tourists to avoid suspicion.
Example
She passed as a student to get a discount on the tickets.
Example
He had passed as a lawyer before being caught.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pass as”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“pass as” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She passed as a native speaker.
Example
He passed as a doctor for years.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“pass as” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She passed as a native speaker.
Example
He passed as a doctor for years.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pass as”?
Good things to know
Does “pass as” have an informal or formal tone?
Pass as is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or discussions.
