What does "passing" refer to in driving terms?

In driving terminology, "passing" specifically refers to the act of going around a slower vehicle to move ahead of it, typically on a roadway where it is legal and safe to do so. The context of this definition aligns with the understanding that passing often involves maneuvering your vehicle into an adjacent lane to surpass another vehicle that is traveling at a slower speed.

When passing, it is important to adhere to safety regulations, which may include checking for oncoming traffic, using turn signals, and ensuring there is enough space to return to the lane safely. While passing on a two-way roadway is technically more hazardous than on a divided highway, it commonly describes this action when the road allows it. Therefore, this choice accurately defines the driving maneuver of passing.

The other options do not accurately represent the concept of passing as understood in driving contexts. For example, slowing down behind a vehicle indicates a lack of movement to overtake, stopping next to a vehicle implies staying stationary, and overtaking on a single lane could be ambiguous and potentially unsafe in certain situations since it does not clarify the legalities or dangers associated with such actions.