passed the torch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "passed the torch" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to signify the act of transferring responsibility, leadership, or knowledge from one person to another. Example: "After years of leading the project, she finally passed the torch to her successor, ensuring a smooth transition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

He is telling us that he has passed the torch.

The New Yorker

Had my mother passed the torch to my sibling?

The New York Times

At the end of each school year, graduating seniors passed the torch to the next class.

The New York Times

Asked if he had passed the torch to Woods here, he laughed.

The New York Times - Sports

It was only a year ago that Madonna symbolically passed the torch to her pop successor on the awards stage.

The New York Times - Arts

After retiring from the stage she passed the torch, teaching singing at various American universities, including 14 years at Howard University, Washington.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

We're passing the torch to the following.

The New York Times - Travel

It's Prof. Tweedy Q. Pipesmoker passing the torch to Yobbo Jones.

The New York Times - Books

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

The New York Times - Sports

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

The New York Times - Sports

"This is about passing the torch from one quarterback to the next," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "passed the torch" when you want to convey a symbolic transfer of responsibility or knowledge, especially when the predecessor is willingly stepping aside. For example, "After a decade of service, the CEO passed the torch to his protégé."

Common error

Avoid using "passed the torch" in situations where a forced or involuntary transfer occurs. The phrase implies a willing and often celebratory handover, not a reluctant or contentious one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "passed the torch" functions as an idiomatic expression signifying the transfer of responsibility, leadership, or knowledge from one person to another. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English. It's often used to indicate a smooth transition or succession.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "passed the torch" is a very common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe the transfer of responsibility, leadership, or knowledge. Ludwig AI confirms its suitability in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While it implies a smooth and willing handover, be mindful of its symbolic weight and avoid using it in situations involving forced transfers. Consider alternatives like "handed over the reins" or "transferred leadership" for more formal settings or specific nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

passed the baton

Similar to "passed the torch", often used in a more literal sense, like in a relay race, but can also be metaphorical.

handed over the reins

Emphasizes transferring control and authority, more direct than metaphorical.

turned over the position

Focuses on the act of transferring a specific job or role.

transferred leadership

Focuses specifically on the act of transferring leadership roles.

gave the mantle

Implies bestowing a position of honor or importance, often with a sense of tradition.

ceded control

Highlights the act of relinquishing control or power.

entrusted the responsibility

Emphasizes the act of trusting someone with a particular duty or task.

relinquished power

Emphasizes the act of giving up power or authority.

bestowed the legacy

Focuses on the act of passing on a heritage or tradition.

delegated the task

Highlights assigning a specific task or responsibility.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "passed the torch"?

Saying someone has "passed the torch" means they have transferred responsibility, leadership, or a significant role to another person, often with a sense of mentorship or legacy.

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

You can use alternatives like "handed over the reins", "transferred leadership", or "passed the baton" depending on the context.

Is "passed the torch" an idiom?

Yes, "passed the torch" is an idiom. It's a figurative expression whose meaning isn't deducible from the literal meanings of the individual words.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "passed the torch"?

It's appropriate when someone willingly gives their role, responsibility, or leadership to another, especially when there's an element of mentorship or succession planning involved.