This common, informal expression means to lose consciousness temporarily.
The idea
Pass out has no object in this sense: the runner passed out. The past is passed out.
Examples
- The runner passed out in the heat.
- I nearly passed out when I saw the needle.
- If you feel faint, sit down before you pass out.
- A passenger passed out on the crowded train.
- She passed out briefly and then opened her eyes.
- He has never passed out before.
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Watch out
Feeling faint is not the same as actually losing consciousness. Do not insert an object into this meaning.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct option. The singer ___ out during rehearsal yesterday. (passed / pass)
Show answer or example answer
passed
passed: yesterday calls for the past form.
Choose the correct option. He felt dizzy and nearly passed ___. (out / in)
Show answer or example answer
out
out: the person nearly fainted.
Choose the correct option. When someone passes out, they temporarily lose ___. (consciousness / a ticket)
Show answer or example answer
consciousness
consciousness: the loss is temporary.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the correct option. The singer ___ out during rehearsal yesterday. (passed / pass)
Choose the correct option. He felt dizzy and nearly passed ___. (out / in)
Choose the correct option. When someone passes out, they temporarily lose ___. (consciousness / a ticket)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe a fictional situation in which someone nearly faints.