Brush-off

A brush-off is a dismissive or rebuffing response or treatment, often characterized by a lack of genuine interest or consideration. It can involve being ignored, given a curt answer, or having one's requests or concerns casually dismissed. The intent is generally to avoid further interaction, commitment, or obligation. It can be delivered verbally, through body language, or by inaction. The recipient is often left feeling disregarded, belittled, or rejected, experiencing a sense of disrespect or frustration because their input has been deemed unimportant and discarded. It can be a complete or partial rejection depending on how severe the brush off is.

Brush-off meaning with examples

• She gave him a total brush-off when he tried to ask her out, barely making eye contact and quickly changing the subject. He felt humiliated by the swift rejection. He thought the complete lack of interest was cold.
• The customer received a brush-off from the tech support agent, who quickly gave a generic answer and ended the call. The quick and insincere answer left the customer unsatisfied. The service they received was very poor.
• After submitting her proposal, the manager gave her a brush-off, offering only vague feedback and postponing a decision. The delayed result made her question the merit of her ideas. The process was stalled and unhelpful.
• He received a brush-off from the potential investor, who cut the pitch short and showed a lack of interest in their company. He was hurt by the rapid rejection. He felt that they did not even listen.
• When she asked for help, she was met with a brush-off; her friend claimed to be too busy. She was frustrated by the abruptness of her friend. She was left to her own resources.