English Expression · Intermediate
pass the time
To occupy oneself for a period of time
Pronunciation: say pass the time
Meaning
To occupy oneself for a period of time.
Example
Since the train was late, we passed the time looking at our fellow passengers and making up stories about them.
Since the train was late, we passed the time looking at our fellow passengers and making up stories about them.
Practice tips
- Practice pass the time out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.