brush off

[bruhsh-awf, -of] / ˈbrʌʃˌɔf, -ˌɒf /

VERB

ignore

Synonyms

WEAK

boycott brush aside cold-shoulder contradict cut deny disclaim dismiss disown disregard ostracize override rebuff refuse reject repudiate scorn send away slight snub spurn sweep aside

Antonyms

WEAK

attend pay attention

NOUN

dismissal

Synonyms

STRONG

cold shoulder combat denial difference dismissal disregard go-by rebuff rejection repulse slight traversal

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Financial planners who brush off crypto and reject it outright risk alienating these potential clients.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

Rich Nuzum, a top executive at the asset manager Franklin Templeton, said the markets have learned to brush off Trump’s tariffs and suggested that the new threatened levies on Europe would be the same.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 2026

Her steely determination helped her brush off such a brutal defeat, as well as making her a fearsome opponent.

From BBC • Sep. 6, 2025

I have great memories of rolling down the green hills surrounding the museum and watching the scientists brush off newly discovered fossils.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2025

“She’s right. Swimming ain’t my thing anyway,” I say back, trying my best to brush off Julicza’s dis.

From "Like Vanessa" by Tami Charles

brush off

Example Sentences

Related Words