What are the definitions of “pass away”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Die.
Sadly, Georgia's uncle PASSED AWAY yesterday after a short illness.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pass away”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pass away is to die. It is a gentle and polite way to talk about someone's death.
What are the different verb forms of “pass away”?
| Root Verb | pass away |
| Third Person Singular Present | passes away |
| Present Participle | passing away |
| Simple Past | passed away |
| Past Participle | passed away |
Example
My neighbor's dog passed away last week.
Example
When someone passes away, their family and friends feel sad.
Example
He is passing away peacefully in his sleep.
Example
My grandfather passed away two years ago.
Example
She had passed away before the ambulance arrived.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pass away”?
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 away” 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
My aunt passed away last month.
Example
The famous actor passed away in his sleep.
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 away” 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
My aunt passed away last month.
Example
The famous actor passed away in his sleep.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pass away”?
To die without pain or distress, often in one's sleep.
Example
Her grandmother passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 90.
Good things to know
Does “pass away” have an informal or formal tone?
Pass away is a polite and gentle way to talk about death. It is appropriate for both formal and informal situations. In very formal contexts, you might use the term 'deceased' instead.
