pass the aux
/pæs ðə ɑːks/
Meaning
Originally referring to physical auxiliary cables used to connect phones to car stereos, this expression is now used figuratively to ask someone to let you play your music. It is highly casual and common among friends in cars, at house parties, or social gatherings. Asking someone to 'pass the aux' means you want to take over DJ duties because you have a great playlist or song to share.
Examples
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Hey, pass the aux, I want to play that new track I was telling you about.
Hey, pass the aux, I want to play that new track I was telling you about.
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If you are going to play sad acoustic songs, I am not going to pass the aux.
If you are going to play sad acoustic songs, I am not going to pass the aux.
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He finally passed the aux, and honestly, his playlist is incredible.
He finally passed the aux, and honestly, his playlist is incredible.
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Can you pass the aux? I have got the perfect road trip playlist ready to go.
Can you pass the aux? I have got the perfect road trip playlist ready to go.
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She refused to pass the aux because she did not trust my taste in music.
She refused to pass the aux because she did not trust my taste in music.
Common Mistakes
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✗ Can you pass me the auxiliary?
✓ Can you pass the aux?
While 'aux' is short for 'auxiliary', native speakers never say the full word 'auxiliary' in this slang phrase. Saying the full word sounds overly academic and ruins the casual vibe of the slang.
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✗ I passed him the aux to show my new business presentation.
✓ I let him share his screen for the presentation.
'Pass the aux' is strictly used for sharing music in casual, social settings like parties or road trips. Do not use it for professional audio sharing or business meetings.
Related Expressions
Practice
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We have been listening to your indie rock for two hours; please ___!
💡 Ask them to let you play your music instead.
Show answer
pass the aux
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I have got the perfect song for this drive, so ___.
💡 Ask for control of the music.
Show answer
pass the aux