Pronunciation: [pˈas ˈʌp] (IPA) 
The phrase "pass up" is commonly spelled as two separate words, "pass" and "up." The "a" in "pass" is pronounced as the short "a" sound /æ/, while the "u" in "up" is pronounced as the short "uh" sound /ʌ/. When spoken together, the stress falls on the first syllable of "pass," creating the phrase /ˈpæs ʌp/. This phrasal verb commonly means to miss out on an opportunity or to not take advantage of something.
The phrase "pass up" is a phrasal verb that entails choosing not to accept or take advantage of an opportunity or offer that is presented or available. It is commonly used to express the act of intentionally declining or rejecting something, often due to a decision based on personal preference, circumstances, or priorities.
The term "pass up" can refer to various situations, such as declining a job promotion, rejecting a business proposal, or refusing an invitation. It conveys the idea of intentionally letting go or forfeiting an opportunity that might have been beneficial or advantageous.
To "pass up" something often implies a conscious decision made after considering the pros and cons, evaluating alternatives, or understanding potential consequences. It typically implies that the individual has actively chosen to decline the opportunity, rather than overlooking it unintentionally.
The phrase "pass up" can also have a connotation of missed or lost chances, as it suggests that the person has disregarded something valuable or noteworthy. In this sense, it may carry a sense of regret or disappointment, especially when one realizes the potential benefits that were foregone by choosing not to seize the opportunity.
Overall, "pass up" means the deliberate act of refusing or declining an opportunity, offer, or invitation, often resulting from personal considerations, assessment of alternatives, or evaluations of potential outcomes.
The phrase "pass up" consists of two words: "pass" and "up". Let's analyze their etymology separately:
1. Pass:
The word "pass" comes from the Old French word "passer", which means "to pass, go by, leave". It can be traced back to the Latin word "passare", meaning "to step, walk, cross over". Ultimately, it has its origins in the Proto-Indo-European root "*pent-", which signifies "to walk, tread".
2. Up:
The word "up" is derived from the Old English word "up", which has remained relatively unchanged throughout history. It is related to various Germanic languages, such as Dutch "op", German "auf", and Swedish "upp".
When these words are combined, "pass up" indicates refusing or neglecting an opportunity, bypassing something, or not taking advantage of an option.
