passage

word

/ˈpæsədʒ/
PA-sij
/pˈæsɪdʒ/
PA-sij

Definition

A passage is a narrow way that connects places and lets people move through. It can also mean a short part of a book or text, or the act of moving from one place, state, or period to another.

Usage & Nuances

Common in formal and everyday English, but the meaning depends strongly on context. 'A passage' in a building often means a corridor or path; in reading, it means a selected excerpt; in formal use, 'the passage of time/law' means movement or progress. Don't confuse it with 'ticket' except in older or specific travel contexts such as 'book a passage on a ship'.

Example Sentences

The bill finally passed after months of debate, and its passage surprised everyone.

natural

We walked through a narrow passage behind the house.

basic

Please read the passage on page ten.

basic

The passage of time changed the town.

basic

There’s a small passage between the kitchen and the dining room.

natural

That passage from the novel is one of my favorites.

natural