passed the buck

VERB

pass responsibility on to another

Synonyms

WEAK

cop out dodge duck get out of pass on relay slide out of

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.

Ashley says he spoke to his travel insurance company, his airline and travel agent and "they all passed the buck."

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

Well, to your point, pretty much the US courts have passed the buck on this all the time.

From The Verge • May 11, 2021

“It’s a joke. Ryu passed the buck and I don’t see what actual plans Nithya’s office has.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 20, 2021

Though some studios in recent years have had multiple projects made by women, some have passed the buck – Paramount has not made a single picture with a female film-maker in five years.

From The Guardian • Jan. 3, 2020

"Zippo!" says I. "Then he's passed the buck back on Nivens."

From Wilt Thou Torchy by Ford, Sewell