elected to pass

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "elected to pass" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a decision is made to allow something to proceed or to not take action on a particular matter. Example: "The committee elected to pass on the proposal after much deliberation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

"And he's had the puck in scoring situations where he's elected to pass.

The New York Times - Sports

With the Knicks down to one possession, he elected to pass to Jeffries, who had the ball stolen by Garnett.

The New York Times - Sports

There was the occasional horrifying thing like a stuffed duck's neck, which I elected to pass on.

The Guardian

Legislators are elected to pass laws and draw up budgets, not hand out money to favor-seekers.

The New York Times

While the Swedish liner decided on the standard port-to-port pass (on the left), the Andrea Doria elected to pass on the starboard (right) side.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was the first time women's softball had been played... Afterward, the United States women were asked if they minded that NBC, which was broadcasting more than 150 hours of the Games, had elected to pass on softball.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The estate tax rate is even higher for those owners who elect to pass their businesses on to a grandchild because of a penalty for generation skipping.

The New York Times

Jay will be forever at the mercy of this slow but unyielding predator unless she too elects to pass the curse along, by means of sexual intercourse.

The Guardian - Film

In the meantime, Ethiopian can enjoy the significant cost advantages that accrue from being among the 787's first operators.Ethiopian may elect to pass on its cost savings to customers, which is good news given that airfares in Africa are the highest in the world per kilometre and stymie trade between countries that badly need growth.

The Economist

The deal passes clockwise around the table between the betting parties, though players can elect to pass the shoe.

WikiHow

Generally, if you don't know why you would want to use a different operating system, you have no reason to - elect to pass on doing this if you don't understand the general implications of what using a different OS means.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "elected to pass", ensure the context clearly indicates who made the decision and what they are passing or choosing to forgo. For example, "The committee elected to pass on the amendment" provides clear context.

Common error

Avoid using "elected to pass" when a simpler verb like "chose" or "decided" would suffice. Overusing "elected" can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or bureaucratic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "elected to pass" functions as a verb phrase indicating a decision or choice. It combines the verb "elected", suggesting a selection or decision, with the infinitive phrase "to pass", which specifies what is being chosen or allowed to proceed. Ludwig shows that this phrase is often used to describe decisions made by committees, legislators, or individuals.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "elected to pass" is a grammatically sound and usable expression that indicates a deliberate choice or decision. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is often found in neutral to formal contexts, such as news reports and encyclopedic entries. While the term "elected" can suggest a formal decision, the phrase can be employed in various situations, not just political ones. When writing, it's best to consider the specific nuances and choose a term like "chose to pass" or "decided to pass" if a less formal option is more suitable. Though not exceedingly common, using the expression accurately can add precision and clarity to your message. Remember that overuse might lead to an impression of unnecessary formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chose to pass

Replaces "elected" with a more common synonym, reducing formality.

opted to pass

Similar to "chose to pass", but suggests a more deliberate selection.

decided to pass

Emphasizes the decision-making aspect of the phrase.

voted to pass

Implies a formal or collective decision, suitable for group contexts.

resolved to pass

Suggests a firm or determined decision.

legislated to pass

Specifically refers to the act of passing legislation.

determined to pass

Highlights the resolute nature of the decision.

decreed to pass

Indicates an authoritative or official order.

judged to pass

Implies a formal assessment or judgment leading to the decision.

preferred to pass

Indicates a choice based on preference.

FAQs

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

You can use "elected to pass" to describe a situation where someone has chosen to allow something to proceed or chosen to forego something. For example: "The council "elected to pass" the new regulations" or "She "elected to pass" on the dessert".

What's a less formal way to say "elected to pass"?

Alternatives to "elected to pass" include "chose to pass", "decided to pass", or "opted to pass". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is "elected to pass" always used in a political context?

No, while "elected to pass" often appears in political or legislative contexts, it can also be used in more general situations where someone makes a deliberate choice. The key is that the decision involves allowing something to proceed or choosing not to do something.

What is the difference between "elected to pass" and "decided to pass"?

"Elected to pass" and "decided to pass" are similar, but "elected" implies a more formal or deliberate decision-making process. "Decided" is a more general term that can be used in a wider range of contexts.