Meaning and Usage
The verb '통과하다' primarily means 'to pass through' or 'to pass (a test, a stage, or a place)'. It is commonly used in contexts such as passing an exam, passing through a physical space like a tunnel, or passing legislation in a government body.
Common Collocations
- 시험을 통과하다: to pass an exam
- 법안을 통과시키다/통과하다: to pass a bill
- 터널을 통과하다: to pass through a tunnel
These collocations show that '통과하다' can be used both literally (physical movement through a place) and figuratively (passing a test or approval process).
Register and Politeness
'통과하다' is a neutral verb suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is often used in news reports, academic discussions, and everyday conversation.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse '통과하다' with '지나가다' (to pass by). '통과하다' implies successfully passing through or passing a stage, while '지나가다' focuses on moving past something without necessarily implying success or approval.
Use '통과하다' when emphasizing the successful completion or approval of a process or physical passage.