pass on

pass someone on (to someone)

to send, hand, or conduct a person to someone else. I passed the baby on to the next admiring relative. She passed on the baby to her aunt.

See also: pass

pass something on 

1. Lit. to hand or give something (to another person). Have a piece of toffee and pass the box on. Please pass on this book to the next person on the list.

2. Fig. to tell someone something; to spread news or gossip. Don't pass this on, but Bill isn't living at home any more. I refuse to pass on rumors.

See also: pass

pass on someone or something

to accept or approve someone or something. She refused to pass on Ted, so he will not be appointed. The committee passed on the proposal, so work can now begin.

See also: pass

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pass something on (to somebody) also pass on something (to somebody)

to give something to someone pass along something (to somebody) Companies almost always pass any increase in costs on to consumers. She had passed on some false information, but I'm sure she thought it was true.

Usage notes: often said about something given to younger people: I think it's wonderful that you have passed your interest in music on to your children.

See also: pass