English Reference

Word

pas

US/ˈpɑz/

UK/pˈæs/

Definitions

01a dance step

C1 · Theatre

n. a single step or a specific movement in a dance, especially in ballet.

n. a step or movement in a dance, particularly a formalised movement in classical ballet.

“The dancer performed a graceful pas across the stage during the solo.”

“The choreographer demanded a more precise execution of the pas, insisting that the dancers maintain perfect alignment during the transition.”

Formal

Synonyms

02social precedence

C2 · Politics

n. the right to go first or be treated as more important than others because of your rank.

n. the right of precedence or the privilege of going foremost in a social or political hierarchy.

“In the old court, the duke always had the pas over the count.”

“The dispute over who should take the pas at the state dinner reflected deeper tensions within the diplomatic corps.”

Archaic · Formal

Real-World Examples

“Some have live-in personal assistants (PAs) via NHS continuing healthcare, the non-means-tested home support for people with high needs.”
The Guardian · 18 Sept 2026
“Powell is Russ Holliday, a former hotshot college-football quarterback who, eight years ago, committed a career-cancelling faux pas during the televised game that was meant to make him a star.”
The Guardian · 3 Sept 2026

Domain

Politics

This entry

Level
C2 · Proficiency
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

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English Reference