What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pass out
Example
The heat was so intense that he passed out on the sidewalk. [pass out: phrasal verb]
Example
We need to pass out these flyers to promote the event. [pass out: phrasal verb]
Example
After months of rigorous training, he finally passed out of the military academy. [passed out: past tense]
graduate
Example
She will graduate from college next year with a degree in psychology. [graduate: verb]
Example
After four years of hard work, he finally received his graduate degree. [graduate: noun]
Example
After interning for six months, she was thrilled to graduate to a full-time position. [graduate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Graduate is more commonly used than pass out in everyday language, especially in academic or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pass out and graduate?
Graduate is considered more formal than pass out, which is often used in casual conversation or informal settings.