Translation guide
How to express 'passing on' in Japanese, covering transmission of information, objects, traditions, and the euphemism for death.
To convey a message, relay information, or pass along news to someone.
The most common and versatile verb for conveying information, feelings, or messages.
Please pass on the news to him.
Please give my regards (pass on my greetings).
Specifically means to leave or pass on a verbal message.
Could you pass on a message?
Humble form used when passing on a message from a superior or customer.
I will pass on that matter to the department head.
To give something to someone else, often implying transfer of ownership or duty.
General verb for physically handing something over.
Please pass on these documents to him.
To take over or hand over duties, responsibilities, or a role, often in a work context.
To hand over or yield something of value, such as a seat, rights, or property.
To transmit customs, skills, or wisdom to the next generation.
Specifically for passing down folklore, traditions, or oral history.
The old tales of this region are still being passed on.
To inherit and carry on traditions, skills, or a legacy.
Formal term for succession or inheritance of intangible cultural assets.
Pass on skills to the next generation.
To refer to someone's death in a gentle or indirect way.
To politely refuse something, such as an invitation or a chance.
Do not use '通る' or '過ぎる' to mean 'pass away'. These mean 'to pass by' physically and are not euphemisms for death.
Use 伝える for intangible things (information, feelings) and 渡す for tangible objects. Confusing them can sound unnatural.
hand over a message (physically, like a note)
convey a message
I passed on the work to my successor.
彼は息子に会社を譲った。
He passed on the company to his son.
伝統を受け継ぐことは大切です。
It is important to pass on traditions.
A renowned author has passed on.