about to pass

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "about to pass" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is imminent or will happen very soon. Example: "The storm is about to pass, so we can expect clearer skies shortly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But many feel that the burial is a publicity stunt that is bound to be botched by a discredited government itself about to pass into history.

The Economist

Broadway, long the home of revivals and adaptations of known properties, isn't about to pass up troves of songs that people will pay to hear one more time.

The New York Times

I held onto my wife because I am about to pass out.

Vice

If you are getting heavy periods often, are feeling dizzy or about to pass out, consult your doctor.

WikiHow

He was about to pass me.

The New Yorker

I'm about to pass out".

The New York Times

He's about to pass out".

The New York Times

It's about to pass 2bn lifetime views.

The Guardian - Tech

The bill was about to pass.

The New York Times - Books

About to pass the house when he sees two friends.

The New Yorker

His moment of recessionary uplift may be about to pass.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a physical passing, such as one object passing another, ensure that the context clearly defines what is passing what to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "about to pass" when the subject cannot actively 'pass' something. For instance, instead of saying 'The deadline is about to pass', it's better to say 'The deadline is about to expire' or 'The deadline is fast approaching'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "about to pass" functions primarily as a predicative adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that an event or action is imminent. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is widely accepted and used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

10%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "about to pass" is a common and versatile phrase used to indicate that an event or action is imminent. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and media. While it is appropriate for many situations, writers should be mindful of using it with subjects that cannot actively 'pass' something. Alternatives like "'on the verge of'" or "'nearing'" can offer nuanced alternatives. Its function is to signal an impending event, and it maintains a neutral register suitable for broad application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just about to pass

Nearly identical in meaning, adding a slight emphasis on immediacy.

on the verge of passing

Emphasizes the closeness of the event, highlighting that it is just about to happen.

on the brink of passing

Suggests that the event is imminent and potentially decisive.

close to passing

Simple and direct, indicating proximity to the event's occurrence.

on the cusp of passing

Similar to "on the brink", indicating a turning point about to be reached.

nearing the point of passing

Highlights the process and approach towards the event, indicating progress over time.

at the threshold of passing

Emphasizes the event is just about to occur and is on the verge of happening.

approaching the act of passing

Focuses on the action itself, suggesting that the passing is imminent.

in the process of passing

Highlights that the action is underway but near completion.

on the horizon to pass

Suggests that the passing action is near and foreseeable.

FAQs

How can I use "about to pass" in a sentence?

Use "about to pass" to indicate that something is on the verge of happening or is imminent. For example, 'The bill is about to pass in Congress' or 'I think I'm "about to faint"'.

What are some alternatives to "about to pass"?

Alternatives include "on the verge of", "nearing", or "approaching". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "about to be passed" instead of "about to pass"?

While "about to pass" is generally more direct and common, "about to be passed" is also grammatically correct, particularly when describing something being acted upon, such as a law being passed by a legislative body. Context dictates the best choice.

What's the difference between "about to pass" and "going to pass"?

"About to pass" suggests a higher degree of immediacy and certainty than "going to pass". "About to pass" implies that the event will happen very soon, whereas "going to pass" indicates a plan or expectation but may not be as immediate.