pass the time

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

To pass the time, he sat near the baggage area used by Trans World and Delta airlines, his back to the lockers about 40 feet away.

From Slate • Jul. 7, 2026

You’ve heard of doomscrolling on your phone to pass the time — but what about “doomjobbing” while looking for work?

From MarketWatch • May 15, 2026

Brianna Vasquez walked around a San Juan shopping mall Monday with her 13- and 7-year-old kids, trying to pass the time as they hoped for more affordable flights to open up.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 6, 2026

He tried to pass the time playing cards, watching TV and exercising.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2025

It’s just something to pass the time as I wait for my sentence from Tris, as I wait for our plan to strike the Bureau to come together, as I wait for something, anything.

From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth