at a pass

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at a pass" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where someone is in a difficult or challenging position, often implying a sense of being stuck or unable to proceed. Example: "When the project hit a major setback, the team found themselves at a pass, unsure of how to move forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

But he responds with a pinpoint backhand winner and Murray then misses an attempt at a pass.

The Guardian - Sport

Hours into the hike, the Dutch group stopped at a pass with a memorial to an Israeli tourist who had died here of hypothermia in 2004.

The New Yorker

We are, then, at a pass where it is extremely difficult to know exactly how bad the NHS's finances are, or to compare them sensibly with earlier years.

The Guardian - Opinion

Fernando Torres had put Spain in front when he lunged at a pass by David Silva with his right foot outstretched and touched it past Isaksson in the 15th minute.

The New York Times

At thirteen thousand feet, our van arrived at a pass known as Rohtang La — "pile of corpses," so called because of the many people who have frozen to death trying to get through.

The New Yorker

Maitland stretched out his hand to grab at a pass thrown by Foley; Joubert saw it and rightly decided that Maitland had made a genuine attempt to catch the ball.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

The SQA confirmed how 107,295 pupils sat the new Highers with a pass-rate of just over 79 per cent, while further 92,555 pupils sat the original Highers at a pass-rate of 76.7 per cent, slightly lower on the 2014 pass-rate of 77.1 per cent.

Independent

She waves at a passing car.

The Guardian - Film

He fired a pistol at a passing airliner.

The Guardian - Arts

"What the heck?" Dan mutters at a passing car.

The New York Times - Magazine

In another, a young boy threw a chunk of concrete at a passing tank.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at a pass" to describe situations where progress is significantly hindered or impossible without a resolution or decision. Consider whether alternative phrases like "at an impasse" or "in a stalemate" might offer greater clarity or impact depending on the specific context.

Common error

Avoid using "at a pass" when you mean "a passing glance" or "a pass" (referring to permission or a grade). The correct preposition and context are crucial to ensure accurate communication.

Linguistic Context

"At a pass" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, describing a state or condition. Ludwig indicates this phrase is acceptable in written English. Example: 'We are, then, at a pass where it is extremely difficult to know exactly how bad the NHS's finances are...'

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at a pass" is used to describe a state of difficulty or deadlock, finding applications across various contexts, including news, science, and general discussions. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, it's essential to be aware of its subtle differences from similar phrases like "at an impasse", which might indicate a more permanent blockage. To ensure effective writing, choose the phrase that best reflects the specific degree of challenge or stagnation you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a stalemate

Expresses a similar state of deadlock or inability to progress, focusing on the lack of movement or resolution.

at an impasse

Indicates a situation where progress is impossible due to disagreement or lack of resolution.

at a standstill

Describes a situation where activity or progress has stopped completely.

in a dilemma

Highlights the challenging decision-making aspect, focusing on the difficult choice between alternatives.

at a crossroads

Suggests a crucial point where a decision is needed to determine the future direction.

in a tight spot

Emphasizes the difficult or precarious situation, often implying a need for skillful maneuvering.

between a rock and a hard place

Highlights the lack of good alternatives, emphasizing the difficult choice between two undesirable options.

in a predicament

Highlights a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation.

at a critical juncture

Signifies a decisive point in time, emphasizing the importance of the current situation.

in a bind

Implies a difficult situation or predicament from which it is hard to free oneself.

FAQs

How can I use "at a pass" in a sentence?

Use "at a pass" to describe a situation where progress is halted or significantly impeded due to obstacles or lack of clear direction. For example, "Negotiations are "at a pass" because neither side is willing to compromise."

What's the difference between "at a pass" and "at an impasse"?

While similar, "at a pass" often implies a temporary halt or challenge, while "at an impasse" suggests a more permanent or intractable deadlock. The nuance lies in the perceived potential for future resolution.

What are some alternatives to saying "at a pass"?

Depending on the specific context, you could use alternatives such as "in a stalemate", "at a standstill", or "in a dilemma".

Is it grammatically correct to use "at a pass" in formal writing?

Yes, "at a pass" is grammatically correct and can be used in formal writing, although it's essential to ensure the context aligns with its meaning of a temporary halt or challenge. Other options like "at an impasse" might be more appropriate in specific formal contexts.