Pronunciation: [pˈas ðə bˈʌk] (IPA) 
The expression "pass the buck" means to shift responsibility or blame to someone else. The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the game of poker, where a marker or token, called the buck, was passed around the table to indicate who was the dealer. This eventually led to the phrase being used in general conversation. The spelling of "buck" is /bʌk/, which is pronounced with a short u sound followed by a hard k sound.
The phrase "pass the buck" is an idiomatic expression that originated from the game of poker. In the game, a buck, usually a small marker, was passed from player to player to indicate who the dealer was. When a player did not wish to be the dealer, they would "pass the buck" to the next person, thereby avoiding the responsibility and obligation of dealing.
As a figurative phrase, "pass the buck" refers to the act of shifting or avoiding responsibility, accountability, or blame onto someone else or something else. It involves deflecting the blame or passing on a task or obligation to another person in order to avoid personal culpability or involvement in a certain situation.
This phrase is used to highlight individuals who refuse to take ownership of their actions or decisions, instead choosing to transfer the responsibility elsewhere. It implies a lack of accountability and suggests a willingness to avoid facing consequences or making difficult decisions.
The concept of "passing the buck" is often associated with a negative connotation, as it portrays a lack of integrity and leadership. It is commonly employed in discussions regarding politics, corporate environments, and interpersonal relationships, to criticize individuals who attempt to evade responsibility for their actions.
