Differences between brush off and shrug off
Brush off means to dismiss or ignore something or someone, often in a rude or abrupt manner. Shrug off, on the other hand, means to disregard or minimize the importance of something, often in a casual or nonchalant way.
Meanings and Definitions: brush off vs shrug off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Brush off
- 1Ignore, pay little attention.
The minister BRUSHED OFF the criticism.
Shrug off
- 1Disregard something, not consider it important or harmful.
He SHRUGGED OFF the criticism and carried on the same way.
Usage Examples: brush off, shrug off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
brush off
Example
She always brushes off my advice.
Example
He brushes off any negative comments about his work.
shrug off
Example
She always shrugs off negative comments from others.
Example
He shrugs off the criticism and continues working.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Brush off
To reject or refuse to consider something or someone.
Example
He dismissed her idea without even listening to her explanation.
To pay no attention to something or someone.
Example
She tried to get his attention, but he ignored her and kept working.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shrug off
play down
To make something seem less important or serious than it really is.
Example
She tried to play down the impact of the mistake, but everyone knew it was a big deal.
Differences in brush off vs shrug off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: brush off or shrug off?
Both brush off and shrug off are commonly used in everyday conversation, but brush off is slightly more common. It's often used when someone wants to express annoyance or frustration with someone or something. Shrug off is also used frequently, but it's more commonly used when someone wants to downplay the significance of something.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of brush off and shrug off
Both brush off and shrug off are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of brush off and shrug off
The tone of brush off and shrug off can differ based on context. Brush off often carries a negative or dismissive tone, while shrug off typically has a more neutral or indifferent tone.
brush off & shrug off: Synonyms and Antonyms
Brush off
Antonyms
- acknowledge
- address
- consider
- heed
- respect
- pay attention
- take seriously
- value
