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."
inseparable
brush over
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To deal with a topic or problem briefly and superficially, without giving it proper attention.
In plain English
To talk about something very quickly without going into detail, often to avoid a difficult subject.
What does "brush over" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To pass a brush lightly over a surface — extended to mean treating a topic with only a surface-level sweep.
Actually means
To talk about something very quickly without going into detail, often to avoid a difficult subject.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "brush over"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
issues details problems mistakes history facts
How to conjugate "brush over"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "brush over" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "brush over" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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