What are the definitions of “pass down”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Transmit information or give property to younger generations.
The tales were PASSED DOWN for centuries without changing ay of the words.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pass down”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pass down is to transmit information, knowledge, or property from one generation to another. This can include family traditions, stories, or heirlooms.
What are the different verb forms of “pass down”?
| Root Verb | pass down |
| Third Person Singular Present | passes down |
| Present Participle | passing down |
| Simple Past | passed down |
| Past Participle | passed down |
Example
My grandmother passed down her favorite recipes to my mother.
Example
He passes down his woodworking skills to his children.
Example
She is passing down the family history to her grandchildren.
Example
The stories were passed down through generations.
Example
The antique clock has been passed down in our family for years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pass down”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“pass down” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
My father passed down his watch to me.
Example
The tradition has been passed down for generations.
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 down” 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 father passed down his watch to me.
Example
The tradition has been passed down for generations.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pass down”?
Good things to know
Does “pass down” have an informal or formal tone?
Pass down 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 presentations.
