student asking question

What is the difference between "pass" and "hand"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

To "hand" something to something means to physically place it in their hand by extending out your hand and giving it to them. Ex: I handed her a bowl of soup. "Pass" can be used in the same context, but it usually implies that something is less gently given to someone. "Pass" also does not always mean to place something in someone's hand, and it can instead be used to refer to lightly toss something to someone. Ex: Pass me the ball.

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