What are the definitions of “brush off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Ignore, pay little attention.
The minister BRUSHED OFF the criticism.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “brush off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb brush off is to ignore or pay little attention to something or someone. It is often used when someone does not take criticism or a suggestion seriously.
What are the different verb forms of “brush off”?
| Root Verb | brush off |
| Third Person Singular Present | brushes off |
| Present Participle | brushing off |
| Simple Past | brushed off |
| Past Participle | brushed off |
Example
She always brushes off my advice.
Example
He brushes off any negative comments about his work.
Example
They are brushing off the rumors about their company.
Example
Yesterday, she brushed off his concerns about the project.
Example
The criticism was brushed off by the politician.
What kind of phrasal verb is “brush off”?
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 off” 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 off his compliments.
Example
He brushed the criticism off easily.
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 off” 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 off his compliments.
Example
He brushed the criticism off easily.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “brush off”?
To avoid or neglect a responsibility or duty.
Example
He brushed off his chores and went to play video games instead.
Good things to know
Does “brush off” have an informal or formal tone?
Brush off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, but it can also be used in more formal settings, such as in a business meeting or a news article, depending on the specific context.
