pass the torch
Hand off leadership
To pass the torch is to transfer responsibility, authority, or a role to someone else, typically a younger or newer person who will carry on a tradition, mission, or legacy.
The image comes from relay races and ancient torch-bearing ceremonies where a flame must be kept alive through succession.
After thirty years as CEO, she's ready to pass the torch to the next generation of leadership.
The phrase implies continuity and trust in one's successor.
- giveTo transfer possession
- hand downPass to successors
- handGrasping body part
- sharePortion given out
- delegateEntrust authority to another
hand it over · succession · changing of the guard · relay race · apprenticeship · mentorship · flame · inheritance · transition · new leadership · continuity · take the helm · stewardship · bequeath · generational · family business · ceremony · legacy
- fire idiomsplay with fire, fight fire with fire, fan the flames, add fuel to fire, on fire
- Leadership idiomslead by example, take the reins, at the helm, call the shots, take charge
pass the torchgatekeep
Control access selectively
overstay one's welcome · die in office · hang on · stonewall · micromanage
pass, torch, passes, passed, passing, passer, passable, passage, passenger