pass the torch

USAGE SUMMARY

"pass the torch" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is usually used metaphorically to refer to someone voluntarily taking on a responsibility or passing on knowledge or skills to the next generation. For example: After 25 years of service, our CEO is ready to pass the torch to the next generation of leadership.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"He said he'll pass the torch to me".

The New York Times - Sports

Timor-Leste is perfectly ready to pass the torch to an even-younger brother.

The Economist

"The time has come to pass the torch to a new generation of asshats".

The New Yorker

She thinks that now is the time "to pass the torch of leadership".

The Economist

Innovative companies will transform training and internships into apprenticeships that pass the torch.

The New York Times

"It's a good way to pass the torch along," Mr. Westerfield said.

The New York Times

This week, it was London's turn to pass the torch to Rio de Janeiro.

The Guardian - Opinion

This week he will effectively pass the torch to his daughter.

The New York Times - Sports

"The time is right for me to pass the torch and spend more time with my family," the Star reported.

Independent

"People are always asking me, 'Who will you pass the torch to?' The question makes me angry.

The New Yorker

At the opening ceremony, she helped pass the torch to the last set of hands and wanted to do more.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pass the torch" when emphasizing a transfer of responsibility or leadership from one person or group to another. It's most effective when the transition is intended to continue a legacy or tradition.

Common error

Avoid using "pass the torch" in literal contexts. The phrase is metaphorical and should not be used to describe the actual passing of a physical torch.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pass the torch" functions as an idiomatic expression, often used as a metaphor for transferring responsibility, power, or knowledge. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable part of a sentence, commonly found in contexts involving transitions of leadership or legacy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic phrase "pass the torch" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe the act of transferring responsibility, leadership, or knowledge. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is well-integrated into written English and commonly used to convey transitions across various domains. Predominantly found in news and media, it maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse audiences. When using this expression, consider the metaphorical implications and avoid literal interpretations. Consider alternatives such as "hand over the reins" or ""transfer leadership"" to adjust the nuance as needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hand over the reins

Emphasizes the transfer of control or authority.

transfer leadership

Directly indicates a change in leadership roles.

cede control

Highlights the act of relinquishing power or command.

entrust the responsibility

Focuses on assigning a duty or task to someone.

delegate authority

Implies a formal distribution of power and duties.

relinquish command

Specifically refers to giving up a position of authority.

yield the position

Suggests stepping down from a role or office.

transfer knowledge

Emphasizes the sharing of information and expertise.

mentor the successor

Highlights the guidance and training of a replacement.

empower the next generation

Focuses on giving future leaders the tools and opportunities to succeed.

FAQs

What does it mean to "pass the torch" to someone?

To "pass the torch" means to transfer responsibility, leadership, or knowledge to someone else, often with the implication of continuing a legacy or tradition. It's a metaphorical way of saying you're handing over control or guidance.

How can I use "pass the torch" in a sentence?

You can use "pass the torch" in a sentence like this: "After 20 years as CEO, she decided it was time to "transfer leadership" and pass the torch to a younger executive." Use it to describe situations where someone is stepping down and someone else is taking over.

What can I say instead of "pass the torch"?

You can use alternatives like "hand over the reins", "cede control", or "transfer knowledge" depending on the specific context you want to emphasize.

Is "passing the torch" the same as "accepting the torch"?

No, "passing the torch" refers to the act of giving responsibility to someone, while "accepting the torch" means taking on that responsibility. They are two sides of the same transition.