Lapse vs Pass: When To Use Each One In Writing?

Are you confused about when to use “lapse” and “pass” in your writing? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. These two words are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings that can make a big difference in the clarity of your writing.

Let’s clear up any confusion about which word is the “proper” one to use. The truth is, both “lapse” and “pass” can be correct in certain contexts. However, it’s important to understand the nuances of each word so that you can choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

So, what exactly do these words mean? “Lapse” refers to a temporary or minor failure or mistake. For example, you might say that you “lapsed” in your diet by eating a piece of cake. In legal terms, a “lapse” can refer to the expiration of a contract or agreement.

On the other hand, “pass” generally means to go by or move past something. For instance, you might say that a car “passed” you on the highway. In a different context, “pass” can also mean to succeed in a test or examination.

Understanding the difference between “lapse” and “pass” can help you avoid confusion and convey your intended meaning more clearly in your writing. In the rest of this article, we’ll explore some common situations where these words might be used and provide examples to illustrate their proper usage.

Define Lapse

Lapse is a term used to describe the failure to meet a deadline or fulfill an obligation. It refers to the expiration or termination of a contract or agreement due to the lack of action or performance on the part of one of the parties involved. In legal terms, lapse can also refer to the loss or forfeiture of a right or privilege due to the failure to exercise it within a specified period.

Define Pass

Pass, on the other hand, refers to the successful completion or achievement of a task or goal. It is the opposite of lapse, as it implies that the necessary actions were taken and the expected outcome was achieved. In some contexts, pass can also refer to the act of allowing someone to go through a barrier or checkpoint, such as passing a security clearance or passing a test to obtain a license.

Here is a table summarizing the key differences between lapse and pass:

Lapse	Pass
Failure to meet a deadline or obligation	Successful completion or achievement
Expiration or termination of a contract or agreement	Continuation or renewal of a contract or agreement
Loss or forfeiture of a right or privilege	Retainment or acquisition of a right or privilege

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to using words correctly, it’s important to understand the nuances of their meanings. In this section, we’ll explore how to use the words “lapse” and “pass” in a sentence.

How To Use “Lapse” In A Sentence

The word “lapse” is often used to describe a temporary failure or mistake. Here are some examples of how to use “lapse” in a sentence:

• After a brief lapse in concentration, the athlete missed the winning shot.
• Due to a lapse in judgment, he made a poor decision that cost him his job.
• The company experienced a lapse in production due to a shortage of materials.

As you can see, “lapse” is typically used to describe a momentary slip-up or mistake. It’s important to note that “lapse” can also refer to the passage of time, as in the phrase “a lapse of time.”

How To Use “Pass” In A Sentence

The word “pass” has a variety of meanings and uses in the English language. Here are some examples of how to use “pass” in a sentence:

• After studying for hours, she finally passed the exam.
• The car passed us on the highway.
• He was able to pass the ball to his teammate for an easy score.

As you can see, “pass” can be used to describe the act of succeeding at something, as well as the act of moving past or going by something. “Pass” can also refer to a document or ticket that grants access to something, as in the phrase “boarding pass” or “VIP pass.”

It’s important to note that “pass” can also be used as a verb to describe the act of giving something to someone else, as in the phrase “to pass the salt.”

By understanding the various meanings and uses of “lapse” and “pass,” you can use these words more effectively in your writing and communication.

More Examples Of Lapse & Pass Used In Sentences

In this section, we will explore more examples of how the words “lapse” and “pass” can be used in sentences. By understanding how these words are used in context, we can better grasp their meanings and use them more effectively in our own writing.

Examples Of Using Lapse In A Sentence

• After a lapse of several years, he returned to his hometown.
• The company’s profits have lapsed in recent months.
• She forgot to renew her membership, causing it to lapse.
• The athlete suffered a lapse in concentration, causing him to lose the game.
• There was a lapse in communication between the two departments.
• His memory of the event had lapsed over time.
• The company’s security measures lapsed, leading to a data breach.
• She had a momentary lapse in judgment and said something she regretted.
• The policy will lapse if the premiums are not paid on time.
• His health took a turn for the worse after a lapse in his treatment regimen.

Examples Of Using Pass In A Sentence

• He allowed the opportunity to pass him by.
• She was determined to pass the exam on her first try.
• The bill is expected to pass through Congress this week.
• He watched the cars pass by on the busy street.
• She had to pass through security before boarding her flight.
• The disease can be passed from person to person through close contact.
• He was able to pass on his knowledge and expertise to his students.
• She waited patiently for the storm to pass before venturing outside.
• The company’s new policy did not pass muster with the employees.
• He was able to pass off his fake ID as genuine.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using the words ‘lapse’ and ‘pass’, it’s common for people to mistakenly use them interchangeably. However, doing so can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using ‘Lapse’ Instead Of ‘Pass’

One common mistake is using ‘lapse’ instead of ‘pass’ when referring to the act of passing an exam or test. For example, saying “I lapsed my driving test” instead of “I passed my driving test”. This mistake can be confusing as ‘lapse’ actually means to fail or become invalid due to a lack of action or neglect.

Another mistake is using ‘lapse’ when referring to the passage of time. For example, saying “time lapsed quickly” instead of “time passed quickly”. While ‘lapse’ can refer to the passage of time, it implies a break or interruption in the continuity of time, whereas ‘pass’ simply refers to the movement of time.

Using ‘Pass’ Instead Of ‘Lapse’

On the other hand, using ‘pass’ instead of ‘lapse’ can also lead to confusion. One common mistake is using ‘pass’ when referring to the expiration of a deadline or time limit. For example, saying “the deadline passed” instead of “the deadline lapsed”. While ‘pass’ can refer to the expiration of a deadline, it implies a more active and intentional action, whereas ‘lapse’ implies a more passive and unintentional action.

Another mistake is using ‘pass’ when referring to the loss of a privilege or right. For example, saying “I passed my license” instead of “I lost my license”. While ‘pass’ can refer to the granting of a privilege or right, it implies a positive outcome, whereas ‘lose’ or ‘lapse’ implies a negative outcome.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

• Double-check the meaning of ‘lapse’ and ‘pass’ before using them interchangeably
• Use ‘pass’ when referring to the successful completion of a test or exam
• Use ‘lapse’ when referring to the expiration of a deadline or time limit
• Use ‘lose’ or ‘lapse’ when referring to the loss of a privilege or right

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between the words “lapse” and “pass,” context is everything. The meaning of each word can vary greatly depending on the situation in which it is used. Let’s take a closer look at some different contexts and how the choice between “lapse” and “pass” might change.

Legal Context

In a legal context, the choice between “lapse” and “pass” can have significant implications. For example, if a contract has a clause that states it will “lapse” after a certain period of time, this means that the contract will no longer be valid or enforceable after that time has passed. On the other hand, if a contract has a clause that states it will “pass” to a particular party after a certain event occurs, this means that the party will become the owner of the contract or its benefits. Thus, in a legal context, the choice between “lapse” and “pass” can have a major impact on the rights and obligations of the parties involved.

Insurance Context

In the context of insurance, the choice between “lapse” and “pass” can also be significant. If a policy “lapses,” this means that the policyholder has failed to pay the required premiums and as a result, the policy is no longer in force. This can have serious consequences if the policyholder experiences a loss and is not covered by insurance. On the other hand, if a policy “passes” to a new owner, this means that the new owner will assume responsibility for paying the premiums and will be entitled to the benefits of the policy. Thus, in the context of insurance, the choice between “lapse” and “pass” can have a major impact on who is responsible for paying premiums and who is entitled to benefits.

Personal Context

Finally, in a personal context, the choice between “lapse” and “pass” can be more subjective. For example, if someone says that a certain opportunity “lapsed,” this might mean that they missed out on the opportunity because they failed to act in time. On the other hand, if someone says that a certain opportunity “passed” them by, this might mean that they missed out on the opportunity for a different reason, such as because they were not qualified or did not have the necessary resources. Thus, in a personal context, the choice between “lapse” and “pass” can depend on the individual’s perspective and the specific circumstances involved.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using “lapse” and “pass” are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions to consider. In certain contexts, the usual guidelines may not apply.

Exceptions For “Lapse”

• Medical terminology: In medical terminology, “lapse” can refer to a temporary loss of consciousness or memory. For example, a patient may experience a “lapse” in memory after undergoing anesthesia for surgery.
• Legal terminology: In legal contexts, “lapse” can refer to the expiration of a legal right or privilege. For example, if a person fails to renew their driver’s license, it may “lapse,” and they may be unable to legally drive until they renew it.
• Financial terminology: In financial contexts, “lapse” can refer to the expiration of an option or contract. For example, if a person fails to exercise their stock options before the expiration date, the options may “lapse,” and they may lose the right to buy the stock at the agreed-upon price.

Exceptions For “Pass”

• Sports terminology: In sports contexts, “pass” can refer to the act of throwing or kicking a ball to a teammate. For example, in football, a quarterback may “pass” the ball to a wide receiver.
• Transportation terminology: In transportation contexts, “pass” can refer to a ticket or permit that allows a person to travel on a specific route or mode of transportation. For example, a person may purchase a “pass” for unlimited rides on a city bus for a week.
• Music terminology: In music contexts, “pass” can refer to a musical phrase or sequence of notes. For example, in classical music, a composer may write a “pass” for the violins to play a certain melody.

It is important to note that these exceptions are specific to certain contexts and may not apply in other situations. As always, it is important to consider the context and intended meaning when choosing between “lapse” and “pass.”

Practice Exercises

Now that we have discussed the differences between “lapse” and “pass,” it’s time to put our knowledge into practice. Here are a few exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences:

Exercise 1:

Fill in the blank with either “lapse” or “pass” in the following sentences:

1. It has been a long time since I last saw him, but I hope we can _______ each other soon.
2. After a brief _______ in judgment, she quickly corrected her mistake.
3. He was able to _______ the exam with flying colors.
4. She couldn’t believe she had let her gym membership _______.
5. As the time continued to _______, she grew more and more anxious.

Answer Key:

1. pass
2. lapse
3. pass
4. lapse
5. pass

Exercise 2:

Write a sentence using “lapse” and another using “pass” that demonstrate the difference between the two words.

Example:

• Lapse: She forgot to pay her bills on time, resulting in a late fee.
• Pass: After months of studying, she was able to pass the difficult exam with flying colors.

Exercise 3:

Choose the correct word to fill in the blank:

1. The _______ of time had caused the paint to peel off the walls.
2. She was able to _______ the exam with a perfect score.
3. After a brief _______ in concentration, she quickly corrected her mistake.

Answer Key:

1. passage
2. pass
3. lapse

By completing these exercises, you should have a better understanding of the differences between “lapse” and “pass.” Remember to pay attention to the context of the sentence to determine which word to use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the difference between “lapse” and “pass” is crucial to effective communication. By using the correct word in the appropriate context, you can avoid confusion and convey your message clearly.

Key Takeaways

• “Lapse” refers to a temporary failure or mistake, while “pass” indicates success or approval.
• These words are often used in legal and academic contexts.
• Other words, such as “lapse” and “passing,” can be confused with these terms and should be used with care.
• Using the correct word can enhance your credibility and improve your writing.

Continuing Education

If you are interested in improving your grammar and language use, there are many resources available to you. Consider taking a writing course or consulting a grammar guide. Reading widely and critically can also help you develop your skills. Remember, effective communication is a lifelong pursuit, and there is always more to learn.