Pronunciation: [pˈast ɐwˈe͡ɪ] (IPA) 
The phrase "passed away" is a common euphemism used to refer to someone who has died. Its spelling follows standard English pronunciation rules, with "passed" pronounced /pæst/ and "away" pronounced /əˈweɪ/. The final -ed in "passed" is pronounced as a separate syllable, making it a two-syllable word. This phrase is often used to convey sympathy or sadness about someone's death, rather than using more blunt or harsh language.
"Passed away" is a commonly used phrase to describe the act of dying or deceasing. It refers to the moment when an individual's life comes to an end, typically due to natural causes, illness, or old age. This expression is often used as a more euphemistic, sensitive, or emotionally comforting way to talk about death.
The term "passed away" signifies the transition from the state of living to the state of nonexistence. It suggests that the person's physical body has ceased to function, and their soul or consciousness has departed from the earthly realm. This phrase conveys a sense of peaceful transition or departure, emphasizing the idea that the deceased has moved on to a different state or realm.
"Passed away" is a sympathetic and gentle way to inform others of someone's death. It is often used in obituaries, eulogies, or when discussing someone's demise in a compassionate manner. The choice of this phrase also reflects society's inclination to soften the impact of death and provide a more comforting expression during times of grief.
Overall, "passed away" is a widely accepted and widely used phrase that delicately conveys the concept of death, acknowledging the loss while seeking to provide solace and understanding to those affected by the departed individual's passing.
The etymology of the phrase passed away can be traced back to the Middle English period. The word pass originated from the Old French word passer, meaning to go or move forward. Over time, it came to be used in the context of death, indicating the transition from life to death. The term away was added to emphasize the notion of departing or leaving this world. Thus, the phrase passed away emerged as a euphemistic expression to refer to someone's death. It is a gentler alternative to more direct and explicit terms, such as died or expired.
