brush off
To ignore someone or treat them as if they don't matter, or to brush dirt off something.
Meanings
To treat someone's question, suggestion, or attempt at contact with dismissive indifference.
"She tried to speak to the manager but was brushed off by the receptionist."
To remove dirt, crumbs, or debris from a surface or clothing by brushing.
"She brushed the sand off her towel and folded it up."
To treat a criticism or setback lightly and move on without being affected by it.
"A seasoned performer, she brushed off the negative reviews and carried on."
Very common in everyday English. The dismissive sense is frequently used as a noun ('give someone the brush-off'). Both senses are widely used in British and American English. Implies a casual or even rude disregard.
Commonly used with
Forms
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