The phrase "passed over" is spelled with two Ss instead of one, as some might expect. This is because the word "pass" is pronounced with a long A sound, represented in IPA as /pæs/. When adding the suffix "-ed," the final consonant is doubled to maintain the same sound. Thus, the correct spelling of the word is "passed," with two Ss. This phrase can be used to describe someone who was skipped over or overlooked for a particular position or honor.
The term "passed over" is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings and contexts, leading to different dictionary definitions. In the most general sense, "passed over" refers to an action of deliberately overlooking or disregarding something or someone. It is often used to describe situations where someone is unfairly skipped or ignored in favor of others.
In a professional or employment context, "passed over" signifies being excluded from a promotion, advancement, or recognition despite being eligible or deserving. This could be due to various factors such as bias, favoritism, or lack of recognition of accomplishments or skills.
Additionally, "passed over" can also allude to the act of crossing, surpassing, or moving past something or someone physically or metaphorically. In this sense, the term implies having successfully navigated through obstacles or challenges, thereby achieving progress or advancement.
Furthermore, "passed over" finds relevance in religious contexts, particularly during Passover or other cultural celebrations. It represents the event mentioned in the Old Testament when God passed over the houses of the Israelites, sparing their firstborns from the final plague cast upon the Egyptians.
Overall, "passed over" carries multiple definitions depending on the context, encompassing concepts of exclusion, overlooking, surpassing, progressing, or the religious event associated with Passover.
The term "passed over" has multiple possible origins that have influenced its meaning today.
One potential source is the verb "pass", which comes from the Latin word "passāre", meaning "to step, to cross over". Over time, the term expanded to refer to moving from one place to another, often implying going beyond or skipping over something. The prefix "over" further emphasizes this notion of movement or crossing.
The phrase "passed over" can also trace its roots to biblical narratives, particularly to the story of the Jewish holiday of Passover. In the Book of Exodus, it is mentioned that during the final plague inflicted upon the Egyptians, God "passed over" the houses of the Israelites, sparing them from the loss of their firstborn. This act of "passing over" became a significant event for the Jewish people, leading to the establishment of Passover as a commemoration of their liberation from slavery.