What are the definitions of “brush aside”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To ignore or dismiss something
Any suggestion that it was quite sufficient but very poorly used was brushed aside.
- 2To dismiss or ignore someone or something without giving them serious consideration.
The preliminary opponents have been brushed aside, used as trial horses.
- 3To ignore or dismiss something without giving it much attention or consideration.
This involves a piece sacrifice which White brushes aside without too much trouble.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “brush aside”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb brush aside is to ignore or dismiss something or someone without giving them serious consideration or attention. It is often used when someone does not want to deal with a problem or issue.
What are the different verb forms of “brush aside”?
| Root Verb | brush aside |
| Third Person Singular Present | brushes aside |
| Present Participle | brushing aside |
| Simple Past | brushed aside |
| Past Participle | brushed aside |
Example
She brushed aside his concerns about the project.
Example
He brushes aside any criticism of his work.
Example
They are brushing aside the negative comments from others.
Example
The manager brushed aside the employee's suggestions.
Example
Her concerns were brushed aside by the committee.
What kind of phrasal verb is “brush aside”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“brush aside” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She brushed aside his concerns.
Example
The manager brushed aside the employee's suggestions.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“brush aside” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She brushed aside his concerns.
Example
The manager brushed aside the employee's suggestions.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “brush aside”?
Good things to know
Does “brush aside” have an informal or formal tone?
Brush aside is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
