Meaning of the word "brush off" in English

What does "brush off" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

brush off

US /brʌʃ ɔf/

UK /brʌʃ ɒf/

to ignore or dismiss someone or something in a dismissive way

Example:

•

She tried to talk to him, but he just brushed her off.

•

Don't brush off his concerns; they might be important.

Synonym:

dismiss disregard shrug off ignore rebuff

to remove something from a surface by brushing

Example:

•

He brushed off the dust from his jacket.

•

She carefully brushed off the crumbs from the table.

Synonym:

dust off wipe off clean off sweep off