Translation guide
To remove something by brushing, or to dismiss something casually.
The learner wants to describe removing dust, crumbs, hair, etc. with a hand or tool.
The learner wants to express casually rejecting an idea, worry, or comment.
To brush off or treat lightly; to dismiss without serious consideration.
彼は私の提案を軽くあしらった。
He brushed away my suggestion.
The English 'brush away' is often used figuratively. In Japanese, the physical and figurative meanings use different verbs. Do not use 払う for dismissing an idea; use phrases like 軽くあしらう instead.
I brushed the dust off my clothes.
机の上のパンくずを手で払った。
I brushed the bread crumbs off the desk with my hand.
To slap or brush off dust, often with a cloth or duster. Slightly more vigorous than 払う.
布団をはたいてほこりを落とした。
I beat the futon to get the dust off.
To brush off and drop, emphasizing removal. Often used for snow or dust.
肩の雪を払い落とした。
I brushed the snow off my shoulders.
To let something go in one ear and out the other; to ignore what someone says.
彼女は私の心配を聞き流した。
She brushed away my concerns.
To reject flatly; to brush aside. Stronger and more formal.
社長はその提案を一蹴した。
The president brushed away the proposal.