pass it on

USAGE SUMMARY

"pass it on" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest that someone else should receive or share something (for example, information, an item, or an opinion) for which the speaker/writer is responsible. For example: "I heard from a reliable source that the new library is opening soon - pass it on!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Take one and pass it on........

Huffington Post

"I'll pass it on".

The New York Times

'Pass it on, pass it on, pass it ON...'.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Why didn't you pass it on?

The New Yorker

"We've got to pass it on".

The New Yorker

"We will pass it on".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

I've passed it on to them.

The New York Times - Sports

But she passed it on to me.

The Guardian

We passed it on to Florida".

The New York Times

"He passed it on to his boys and they passed it on to me".

The New York Times - Sports

Thomas passed the business on to Thomas, Jr., who passed it on to Albert, who passed it on to Gertrude (his widow), still active in the firm.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pass it on" in your writing, consider the context. If you want to emphasize the continuous sharing of something, this phrase is ideal. For example, "If you find this information helpful, please "pass it on" to your colleagues."

Common error

Avoid using "pass it on" when you are referring to something that should be kept confidential. The phrase implies sharing, so it's unsuitable for sensitive information. For instance, instead of saying "I'll tell you a secret, but don't "pass it on"", consider "I'll tell you a secret, but please keep it to yourself."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pass it on" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, used to encourage the transfer of information, responsibility, or an object from one person to another. Ludwig AI indicates it's a correct and usable phrase. It is used to prompt the listener to further disseminate whatever 'it' refers to.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

28%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pass it on" is a common phrasal verb that effectively conveys the idea of sharing information or delegating responsibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used. Its prevalence across diverse sources, including news media and academic articles, demonstrates its versatility. The phrase's function is to initiate a chain of sharing or action, and it maintains a generally neutral tone. Remember to use it in appropriate contexts, avoiding situations where confidentiality is required. By understanding its nuances, you can confidently use "pass it on" in your writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

share it forward

Emphasizes the act of sharing with the intention of creating a ripple effect of kindness or information.

forward the information

Specifically used for sharing information, especially in digital contexts (e.g., email).

relay the message

Focuses specifically on conveying a message or piece of information to someone else.

spread the word

Highlights the act of disseminating information widely to a large group of people.

hand it down

Implies a transfer of knowledge, tradition, or physical item from one generation to the next.

disseminate it

Formal term for spreading information widely, often used in official contexts.

communicate it

A broader term that includes various methods of conveying information, not just verbal.

transfer it

A general term indicating the movement of something from one person or place to another.

give it along

Less common but still conveys the idea of giving something to someone else after receiving it.

make it known

Focuses on ensuring that something is widely understood or recognized.

FAQs

How can I use "pass it on" in a sentence?

You can use "pass it on" to encourage the sharing of information, items, or even goodwill. For example, "If you find this useful, "pass it on" to someone who needs it".

What's a more formal way to say "pass it on"?

While "pass it on" is generally acceptable, you might use phrases like "disseminate the information" or "relay the message" in more formal settings.

Is there a difference between "pass it on" and "forward it"?

"Pass it on" is a general term for sharing, while "forward it" often refers specifically to digitally forwarding a message, such as an email or a link.

What does it mean when someone says "pass it on" after doing a good deed?

When someone says ""pass it on"" after a good deed, they're encouraging you to pay the kindness forward. It means they hope you will do something kind for someone else, continuing the cycle of goodwill.