Pass off Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To pretend something or someone is something they are not, often to deceive; or to try to get away with something untrue.
Usage & Nuances
Usually informal and often negative, implying deception or trickery. Common collocation: 'pass off as' (e.g., 'pass off fake money as real'). Not the same as just 'pass' (to move by). Often used for fake items or identities.
Example Sentences
He tried to pass off the fake painting as a real one.
basic
Don't try to pass off your homework as your own if you copied it.
basic
She managed to pass off her story as the truth.
basic
They tried to pass off the old phone as brand new on the website.
natural
You can’t just pass off his idea as your own and expect no one to notice.
natural
Some vendors tried to pass off cheap jewelry as gold to tourists.
natural