don't pass go

English

Etymology

From the board game Monopoly, in which a certain card ("Go directly to jail; do not pass go, do not collect $200") sends the player to the jail square without the usual traversal of the board.

Phrase

don't pass go

1. To say that somebody is not to do anything without receiving further instructions.
   • 1994, Linda Shaw, One Pale, Fawn Glove., p.195

     Don't come back, don't see Taylor, don't pass Go. Don't do anything in this town again, Miss Grey, ever.

2. To say that somebody is obliged to do something without question.
   • 2001, Janice E. Hale, Learning While Black, p. 126

     As usual, this information was imparted to me with a blank stare, and dumped in my lap with an expression that said, "Don't pass Go, don't collect 200 dollars, go straight to jail!"

Usage notes

• The expression is used on it's own, or complete with don't collect 200 dollars (or pounds), go straight to jail. as written on the original chance card in the Monopoly® board game.