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.

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

pass the torch

While Messi and Ronaldo are preparing to pass the torch in men’s soccer, a significant transition may also be taking place on the women’s side.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2026

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

What if Ma were to pass the torch to me?

From "Dragons in a Bag" by Zetta Elliott