Meaning trap
pass on
transmit genetically
to transfer a characteristic, quality, or condition from one generation to the next, especially through genetic inheritance.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to transfer a characteristic, quality, or condition from one generation to the next, especially through genetic inheritance.
'pass on' also has the more basic meaning 'give or communicate'; this is the advanced sense.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
Certain genetic disorders can be passed on from parents to their children.
It is widely accepted that both physical and psychological traits can be passed on through generations, which has significant implications for studies in heredity and behaviour.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: She passed the gene on for her children.
Say: She passed the gene on to her children.
The recipient takes 'to' — 'pass sth on to sb'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Hereditarily transmitted to offspring' is textbook; 'passed on' is how families actually talk about it.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
pass on a gene/trait
- pass on a gene
- passed on to
- passed down
- hereditary
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- pass on (give or communicate) — 'pass on' also has the more basic meaning 'give or communicate'; this is the advanced sense.