What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
elapsed
Example
Two hours have elapsed since we started the movie. [elapsed: verb]
Example
The elapsed time between the two events was only five minutes. [elapsed: adjective]
pass
Example
Time passes quickly when you're having fun. [pass: verb]
Example
As each minute passed, she grew more anxious. [pass: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pass is more commonly used than elapsed in everyday language. Pass is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while elapsed is less common and more formal, typically used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between elapsed and pass?
Elapsed is more formal than pass, which is more commonly used in everyday language. While elapsed is typically associated with a more formal tone, pass can be used in both formal and informal contexts.