pass the torch

Idioms  

1. Also, hand on the torch. Relinquish responsibilities, a tradition, practice, or knowledge to another. For example, When the company's founder became too ill to continue, he passed the torch to his nephew. This metaphoric expression alludes to the ancient Greek torch race, in which a lighted torch was passed from one runner to the next. A translation from both Greek and Latin, the English version dates from the late 1800s.

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Example Sentences

And I think that the main reason he would be doing that is because he’s ready to step down and pass the torch.

From Slate • Feb. 13, 2026

"It is time to pass the torch," the 71-year-old said as she announced her departure in October, adding that she intended to relax more and fulfil "a long-standing dream" of spending several months in Japan.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

“I’ve decided the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation,” Biden said, still harkening back to his own accomplishments.

From Salon • Jul. 25, 2024

"It is with a heavy heart and much personal reflection that I am therefore calling on Biden to pass the torch to a new generation," he wrote.

From BBC • Jul. 19, 2024

Now, it was time to pass the torch again.

From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly