passer la main

French

Etymology

Literally, “to pass the hand”, or more loosely translated as “to hand over the lead”; from poker.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /pa.se la mɛ̃/ ~ /pɑ.se la mɛ̃/

• Audio:

  (file)

Verb

passer la main

1. (figuratively) to step down (in favour/favor of), to stand aside (in favour/favor of), to pass the mantle (to), to pass the torch (on to), to pass the baton (on to), to hand the reins (to); to hang up one's boots (in favour/favor of) [with à ‘someone’]

   Synonyms: passer le relais, passer le flambeau

   Antonyms: prendre la relève, prendre le relais