What are the definitions of “pass up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Decline a chance.
She PASSED UP the opportunity to go to university because she'd been offered a job.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pass up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pass up is to decline or refuse an opportunity or chance. It means not taking advantage of something that is offered or available.
What are the different verb forms of “pass up”?
| Root Verb | pass up |
| Third Person Singular Present | passes up |
| Present Participle | passing up |
| Simple Past | passed up |
| Past Participle | passed up |
Example
I decided to pass up the job offer because it was too far from home.
Example
He passes up the chance to travel because he is afraid of flying.
Example
She is passing up the opportunity to study abroad because she wants to stay close to her family.
Example
They passed up the invitation to the party because they were too tired.
Example
The promotion was passed up by several employees who didn't want the extra responsibility.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pass up”?
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 up” 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
She passed up the chance to go on vacation.
Example
He passed the opportunity up to start his own business.
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 up” 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 up the chance to go on vacation.
Example
He passed the opportunity up to start his own business.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pass up”?
Pass up the opportunity
To refuse or decline an opportunity.
Example
She passed up the opportunity to study at a prestigious university.
Good things to know
Does “pass up” have an informal or formal tone?
Pass up 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 settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
