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Grammar fix

shrug off

dismiss something easily / treat as unimportant

To show that you are not worried about something, or to treat a problem, criticism, or responsibility as if it is not important or serious.

phrasal verbC1occasional

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • Despite the negative comments, she just shrugged off the criticism and kept going.communication
  • In my opinion, successful leaders are able to shrug off setbacks and stay focused on their goals, which is essential in a competitive environment.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: shrug off + noun

WrongShe shrugged off from the bad news.

RightShe shrugged off the bad news.

'Shrug off' takes the object directly — no 'from'.

Patternshrug off + noun

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff He chose to disregard the criticism as inconsequential.

Natural He just shrugged off the criticism.

'Shrug off' is the natural verb for brushing something aside; 'disregard as inconsequential' is formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • shrug off + setback
    the criticismthe defeatan injuryconcerns

Don't confuse it

This sense is figurative and does not refer to the literal physical action of shrugging your shoulders. It is about how you react to problems or criticism, not about the movement.

Try it in Daily Speak →