Pasar vs. transcurrir
The Spanish verbs 'pasar' and 'transcurrir' both can signify the passage of time, but they are used in different contexts and have subtle nuances.
Pasar
'Pasar' generally means 'to pass', and is used in a wide range of contexts, including time, events, or physical movement.
El tiempo pasa rápido cuando te diviertes.
(Time passes quickly when you're having fun.)
Pasamos una semana increíble en la playa.
(We spent an amazing week at the beach.)
Por favor, pasa la sal.
(Please pass the salt.)
Él pasó al siguiente nivel del juego.
(He passed to the next level of the game.)
Transcurrir
'Transcurrir' refers specifically to the elapse or flow of time. It is more formal and is often used in written language or narrations.
Han transcurrido muchos años desde nuestra última reunión.
(Many years have passed since our last meeting.)
Mientras transcurrían las horas, el ambiente se tornaba más tranquilo.
(As the hours went by, the atmosphere became calmer.)
El verano transcurrió sin incidentes.
(The summer passed without incident.)
Summary
'Pasar' is versatile and can be used for various situations involving passing, spending or transitioning. In contrast, 'transcurrir' is more specific to the passing of time and is used in more formal contexts.