gloss over
To quickly pass over something bad or complicated so people don't notice how serious it really is.
Meanings
To treat a problem, mistake, or difficult topic too lightly, hiding its true significance.
"The politician glossed over the party's financial scandals during his speech."
"The report glosses over the serious flaws in the government's pandemic response."
— The Guardian, 2021
To move through a topic quickly in speech or writing without proper explanation or attention.
"The teacher glossed over the grammar rule, and most students were still confused."
To make something appear better or less problematic than it really is.
"The brochure glossed over the resort's lack of facilities with beautiful photographs."
Very common in journalism, politics, and academic criticism. Often implies intentional avoidance or dishonesty. Can be used critically ('the report glosses over key failures') or descriptively.
Commonly used with
Forms
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