1 B1 informal
To remove a scratch, scuff, or blemish from a surface using a polishing cloth or buffer.
"Don't worry about that scratch on the car door — it should buff out easily."
separable
buff out
B1 informal separable transitive
To remove a scratch, mark, or dent from a surface by polishing or rubbing it with a buffing tool.
In plain English
To rub a scratch or mark until it disappears.
What does "buff out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
Figuratively, to eliminate or smooth over a problem, error, or imperfection.
"A few extra rehearsals should buff out the rough patches in the performance."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To buff (polish with friction) until an imperfection is removed outward from the surface.
Actually means
To rub a scratch or mark until it disappears.
Usage tip
Very common in automotive contexts ('buff out a scratch on the car'). Used in metalworking and furniture repair too. A reassuring everyday phrase used when minor damage occurs.
Words that pair with "buff out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
scratch dent scuff mark paint surface
How to conjugate "buff out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
buff out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
buffs out
he/she/it
Past simple
buffed out
yesterday
Past participle
buffed out
have + pp
-ing form
buffing out
continuous
Hear "buff out" in the wild
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Other ways to say "buff out"
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