HOME > WordMaster® > PASS THE BUCK | 責任を転嫁する

@Work
2005.10.13(Review of 2004.03.30 edition)

Here's a classic idiom! It would be very difficult indeed to guess its meaning from the individual words alone!

Today's LessonCATEGORY: イディオム
PASS THE BUCK   責任を転嫁する

Explanation

  • To pass the buck is to move responsibility or blame onto someone else.
  • pass the buck とは、他人に責任や非難を転嫁する、という意味です。

examples

  1. I complained to the hotel front desk about the poor condition of my room, but the clerk just passed the buck and told me to speak to the manager.
  2. Don't try to pass the buck. It was your responsibility, and you know it.
  3. I don't want to pass the buck, but I would've met the deadline if the research department had provided me with the data I needed sooner.
  4. Some parents won't take responsibility for their children's discipline. They prefer to pass the buck and lay the burden entirely on the schools.

英会話レッスンThe @Work Challenge comes your way tomorrow. Please give it a hearty welcome!