brushing off

VERB

ignore; refuse

Synonyms

WEAK

boycott cold-shoulder contradict cut deny disclaim dismiss disown disregard get rid of have no time for ostracize override rebuff reject repudiate scorn send away slight snub spurn sweep aside

Antonyms

WEAK

attend pay attention see

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

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.

The evidence suggests most Republicans are brushing off the intramural criticism.

From Slate • Mar. 23, 2026

The gains suggest investors were brushing off worries that valuations in the tech sector have become stretched and warnings about the timing and size of returns on huge AI investments.

From Barron's • Jan. 5, 2026

“We as queer people need to check our messaging,” Tierney told The Hollywood Reporter following the incident, brushing off criticisms that the show is fetishizing the gay experience for women viewers.

From Salon • Jan. 2, 2026

“I don’t think it’ll ever change,” Gainer said, brushing off the suggestion that perhaps one day a robot could do his job.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 9, 2025

“You’re not,” says Cordelia, standing up, brushing off the snow.

From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood