2

passer = to pass (a location)

then why does:

passer mes examens = to sit/take/do my tests

see https://www.linguee.com/french-english/translation/passer+mes+examens.html

1 Answer 1

3

In this context passer and pass are false cognates (faux amis). The pair is a very basic one as user @Lambie remarks.

passer ses examens = to sit/take/do his/her exams

Cf.

Réussir ses examens = to pass his/her exams.

See, e.g.

https://www.fluentu.com/blog/french/faux-amis-french-false-friends-cognates/

https://www.9h05.com/10-exemples-frequents-de-faux-amis-anglais-francais/

Google 'passer un examen false cognates'.

See also the question

How to say "I am taking an exam" in French?

PS

Se passer de etc. is not relevant here (thanks @Lambie)

7
  • 1
    Yes, and this is a very basic false friend.
    – Lambie
    Nov 1, 2020 at 15:53
  • @Lambie Thanks for the verification:-)!
    – Dimitris
    Nov 1, 2020 at 15:57
  • @user716881 I suggest that you post a new question for 'se passer'.
    – Dimitris
    Nov 1, 2020 at 16:00
  • 1
    @Dimitris I found a question french.stackexchange.com/questions/8720/…
    – user716881
    Nov 1, 2020 at 16:04
  • @user716881 Bravo. If you have queries don't hesitate to ask a question about se passer. Even if there is an old post, both the question and the answer are in French.
    – Dimitris
    Nov 1, 2020 at 16:07

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