brush over
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To talk about something very quickly without going into detail, often to avoid a difficult subject.
Literal meaning: To pass a brush lightly over a surface — extended to mean treating a topic with only a surface-level sweep.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To treat a subject superficially, giving it only a brief mention rather than proper examination.
"The report brushes over the environmental impact of the project."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 neutral
To apply something (such as paint or a coating) lightly over a surface.
"Brush a thin layer of egg wash over the pastry before baking."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often implies that something important is being under-addressed, either due to carelessness or deliberate evasion. Less strong than 'gloss over' in terms of implied deceitfulness. Common in both spoken and written English.
Commonly used with
issues details problems mistakes history facts
Forms
Base
brush over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
brushes over
he/she/it
Past simple
brushed over
yesterday
Past participle
brushed over
have + pp
-ing form
brushing over
continuous
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