Meaning & use
pass vs fail
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Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
A comparison of the two opposite outcomes of an exam, course, or attempt: succeeding or not succeeding.
Grammar: Used as a fixed phrase, often as a heading or topic. In a sentence, say 'pass or fail' or 'passing vs failing'.
Patterns
- pass vs fail
- the difference between pass and fail
- pass or fail
The teacher explained the grading system: it's simply pass vs fail.
In this course, there's no letter grade — it's pass vs fail.
We discussed pass vs fail and what happens if you don't meet the requirements.
Common combinations
- pass or fail
- The final exam is pass or fail, with no middle grade.
- a pass/fail course
- I took the class as a pass/fail course to reduce stress.
- the difference between passing and failing
- One mark made the difference between passing and failing.
Synonyms and how they differ
- pass/fail
- This is the adjective or noun form used before a noun, as in 'a pass/fail grading system'; 'pass vs fail' is the comparison phrase.
Word family
- pass verb
- To succeed in a test or course.
- fail verb
- To not succeed in a test or course.
Practice
Which sentence uses the phrase correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Pass vs fail' describes the two possible outcomes, so it fits in sentence B. Sentence A contradicts itself by mentioning percentages; C uses the phrase as a verb; D uses it as an adjective, which is not standard.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “pass vs fail”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.