pass the torch
To transfer responsibility.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The manager will pass the torch to her assistant next month.”
“After thirty years of running the family business, the owner decided it was time to pass the torch to his daughter.”
“The retiring professor prepared to pass the torch to his most promising student, trusting her to continue his life's work with the same dedication.”
- 01
carry a torch
To love or to be romantically infatuated with, especially when such feelings are not reciprocated.
- 02
come to pass
To happen; to occur.
- 03
hard pass
An unequivocal rejection with no possibility of a later change of mind.
- 04
let this cup pass from me
An appeal to God or another authority to take away one's present or future suffering.
- 05
parade passed someone by
Someone missed out on the joys of life, an opportunity, or popular movement
- 06
pass away
To die.
- 07
pass muster
To meet or exceed a particular standard.
- 08
pass on
To die.
Last updated August 10, 2026