How Do You Spell PASSING UP?

1. "Passing up" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used in informal English to describe the act of intentionally letting go of or missing an opportunity or chance. It refers to the decision to not take advantage of something that is presented or available to oneself. This can pertain to various aspects of life, such as job offers, promotions, invitations, financial opportunities, or even personal experiences.

   When someone is "passing up" on an opportunity, it implies a conscious choice to forego or decline the chance, often due to various reasons or circumstances. Some may pass up on opportunities due to lack of interest, perceived disadvantages, or conflicting priorities. Others may pass up on opportunities out of fear, insecurity, or uncertainty about the potential outcomes. The decision to pass up on an opportunity can be based on personal assessments, evaluations, or considerations of one's own wants, needs, and goals.

   Passing up on opportunities can have different implications depending on the context. It can be seen as a prudent decision when an individual considers the long-term consequences, potential risks, or their present circumstances. On the other hand, passing up on opportunities may be regretful if the individual later realizes that they missed out on something beneficial, rewarding, or fulfilling.

   Overall, "passing up" refers to consciously refraining from pursuing or accepting an opportunity, and the specific reasons behind this decision can vary greatly among individuals.

The phrase "passing up" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words, "passing" and "up". Here's a breakdown of each:

1. Passing: The word "passing" in this context comes from the verb "pass", which originates from the Old French word "passer". It entered English during the 13th century and stems from the Latin word "passus", meaning "a step, pace, or movement forward".

2. Up: The word "up" is a preposition and adverb in English. Its origin can be traced back to the Old English word "upp", which shares similarities with the German word "auf". The word has been used in English since the 9th century.

When these two words are combined, "passing up" generally refers to either physically moving upward or progressing beyond something.