1 B2 neutral
(of an event) To take place and be completed, especially in a particular way.
"The summit passed off smoothly, with all parties agreeing to a new framework."
inseparable
pass off
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
To happen and be completed (of an event), or for a feeling or sensation to gradually diminish and disappear.
In plain English
For an event to happen in a certain way, or for a bad feeling to slowly go away.
What does "pass off" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
(of a feeling, pain, or sensation) To gradually disappear or subside.
"The dizziness passed off after a few minutes and she felt well enough to drive."
inseparable
Usage tip
This entry covers senses distinct from the deceptive sense (which is better covered under 'pass off as'). 'The ceremony passed off without incident' is a typical usage. British English more than American.
Words that pair with "pass off"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
smoothly without incident successfully well feeling pain
How to conjugate "pass off"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
pass off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
passes off
he/she/it
Past simple
passed off
yesterday
Past participle
passed off
have + pp
-ing form
passing off
continuous
Hear "pass off" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "pass off" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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