passed
v. · adj.-
1 moved by (v.) A2 Elementarymoved past a person or place.
the past tense of 'pass', indicating movement beyond a specific point or person.
ExampleWe passed the old church on our way to the beach.
ExampleThe hikers passed several abandoned cottages before reaching the summit, noting the decay of the stone walls.
- went by
- cleared
PitfallHe past the ball to me.He passed the ball to me.'Passed' is the verb form. 'Past' is usually a noun, adjective, or preposition referring to time or position.
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2 succeeded in a test (v.) A2 Elementarydid well enough to succeed in an exam or a test.
successfully met the required standard in an examination, test, or inspection.
ExampleShe was so happy when she found out she passed her driving test.
ExampleAfter months of intensive study, he finally passed the bar exam and was admitted to the legal profession.
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3 time went by (v.) B1 Intermediatewhen time moved forward.
the elapsing or progression of time.
ExampleSeveral hours passed while we waited for the train to arrive.
ExampleAs the weeks passed, the initial excitement of the project gave way to the steady grind of daily administration.
- elapsed
- went by
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4 gave something to someone (v.) A2 Elementaryhanded something to another person.
transferred an object to another person, typically by hand.
ExampleHe passed the salt to his sister during dinner.
ExampleThe witness passed the documents to the lawyer, who examined them closely for any signs of tampering.
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5 having succeeded (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediate Formalhaving reached the necessary level to be qualified.
having successfully completed a specific qualification or assessment.
ExampleThe list of passed candidates was posted on the school notice board.
ExampleThe department only interviews passed applicants who have already secured their professional certification.
UsageUsually placed before the noun.
Teacher's tipIn modern English, we usually say 'successful candidates' rather than 'passed candidates' in general contexts.