Let’s *pass the time* with scrabbles (not, pass time). However, what you do to pass the time is a *pastime*. My favourite pastimes are teaching and chatting.
The prophet is in *a trance* (not, in trance). _Trance_ is a countable noun.
Comedians *rack their brains* just to *crack good jokes*. (not crack their brains).
GAB
