[Essay] I think I'll pass

[atabitaraf]

Some people consider cosmetic surgery no more serious than visiting a spa or a salon. But others say, "I think I'll pass." They're aware that cosmetic surgery , and surgery should never be taken lightly.
The above text is from Topnotch 2A, I have a question about the meaning of "I think I'll pass" here. Does it mean "die" or "pass away" here?
Thanks,

 

[bhaisahab]

No, it means that they will not have cosmetic surgery.

 

[atabitaraf]

I've copied the text below from my Longman dictionary. Did I do it relevant?

23. pass on [intransitive] to not accept an invitation or offer

• I’m afraid I’ll have to pass on that offer of coffee.

 

[atabitaraf]

And should we not say "I think I'll pass on"?
Thanks again,

 

[emsr2d2]

No. If you said that, I would think you meant "I think I'll die". One of the meanings of "to pass on" is "to die". "To pass on + something" (in this context) means to decide not to take/buy/have it.

Do you want some cake?
I'm on a diet so I think I'll pass, thanks..

We're all going to London for the weekend. Would you like to come?
I think I'll pass, thanks. I don't really like London.

If you wanted to use "pass on" with those examples, you would say "I'll pass on that, thanks".