give it a pass

USAGE SUMMARY

"give it a pass" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are choosing whether something should be accepted, approved of, or agreed to. For example: "I'm not sure if I should accept the job offer, I think I'll give it a pass."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"The problem with banking is people give it a pass on everything," she said by phone from California.

The New York Times

"You've thrown out that bread the last three times you've bought it, give it a pass" will be a text message of the future.

The New York Times

There are a total of 30 cheater squares, but I give it a pass because Mr. Buckley is using them to make an entirely different and valid point.

The New York Times

But the league lucked out, with the offside review fading into the background as the playoffs went on, so we'll give it a pass here.

The Guardian - Sport

This theme was such a cool idea, though, that I am willing to swallow the Tylenol and give it a pass), and the elements of Dark, Night and Cold into the Yin side of the grid.

The New York Times

But the presidential nominees appear unable to decide whether to give it a pass or not; with bankrolls and campaigning days rapidly dwindling, hard strategic decisions are getting harder, and confusion is rampant.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

I'd give it a passing grade, but we still have a lot more work to do".

The New York Times - Sports

As to the other concerns, he said, the report "doesn't even give it a passing glance".

The New York Times

The end result might be deliberately faithful to the 1950s or just give it a passing nod: "A lot of my clients don't want to be wearing the 1950s 'look'," explains Proctor.

Independent

In fact, Brent Robinson, 43, a cardiologist from Texarkana, Tex., visiting with his family on a recent afternoon, didn't give it a passing glance — until a reporter pointed it out and told him who might be underground.

The New York Times

If a student presented him with a plan like this in one his classes at Harvard, Summers wrote, he would be "hard pressed to give it a passing grade".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "give it a pass" when you've considered something and decided to not pursue it, often due to minor flaws or extenuating circumstances. It implies a deliberate choice to overlook something.

Common error

Avoid using "give it a pass" when you actually have an obligation to address an issue. It's for situations where you have the discretion to overlook something, not ignore a responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give it a pass" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate a decision to overlook something or to not pursue a matter further. As Ludwig AI confirms, it suggests acceptance or agreement despite potential flaws. The examples provided by Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts where a conscious decision is made to excuse or ignore something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "give it a pass" is a common idiomatic phrase used to indicate a decision to overlook something or not pursue a matter further. As Ludwig AI validates, it signifies acceptance or agreement despite minor flaws. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it carries a neutral to informal tone. While generally acceptable, it's essential to avoid using it when there's a genuine obligation to address an issue, as it implies a discretionary choice rather than a mandatory action. Consider alternatives such as "overlook it" or "excuse it" to fine-tune the specific context and formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overlook it

This alternative implies consciously disregarding or ignoring something.

disregard it

This suggests a deliberate decision to ignore or pay no attention to something.

excuse it

This suggests finding a reason to forgive or justify something.

turn a blind eye to it

This implies intentionally ignoring something, often something wrong or undesirable.

let it slide

This suggests allowing something to go unpunished or unaddressed.

condone it

This implies accepting or approving of something, even if it's questionable.

take no notice of it

This suggests ignoring or not paying attention to something.

decline it

This indicates a refusal or rejection of something offered.

reject it

This signifies a firm refusal to accept or agree with something.

abstain from it

This suggests choosing not to participate in or engage with something.

FAQs

What does "give it a pass" mean?

"Give it a pass" means to decide not to pursue something, to overlook a flaw, or to allow something to go without criticism or action. It often implies a deliberate choice to ignore a minor issue.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "give it a pass"?

It's appropriate to use "give it a pass" when you are choosing whether something should be accepted or approved of. You can use alternatives like "overlook it" or "let it slide" depending on the context.

What are some similar phrases to "give it a pass"?

Similar phrases include "excuse it", "disregard it", or "turn a blind eye to it". Each has slightly different nuances, so consider the specific context.

Is "give it a pass" formal or informal?

"Give it a pass" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "decline it" or "abstain from it".