Brush (something) under the carpet In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "brush (something) under the carpet", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

author Zesty Y calendar 2021-05-14 04:05

Meaning of Brush (something) under the carpet

Synonyms:

sweep (something) under the carpet , sweep (something) under the rug

Brush (something) under the carpet British verb phrase

":Carpet" can be replaced by "rug" or "mat" without changing the meaning.

Try to hide and deny something that is embarrassing, unappealing, or damaging to one's reputation

The city management team's attempts to brush the scandal under the carpet were not very effective.

In order to brush taking bribes under the carpet, he destroyed the camera recording the footage.

You need to stop brushing your health problems under the carpet, if you want to get well soon.

Other phrases about:

an iron fist/hand (in a velvet glove)

Someone who looks gentle and sweet but in fact is severe and forceful

keep (one's) own counsel

This idiom means that someone does not share what they think or feel with others.

paper over the cracks
To cover up or conceal problems in order to make a situation seem better
sail under false colours

To deliberately hide one's true nature, intentions or purposes

the certain party
Refer to someone who you want to keep their identity secret

Grammar and Usage of Brush (something) under the carpet

Verb Forms

  • brushed (something) under the carpet
  • brushing (something) under the carpet

The verb "brush" must be conjugated according to its tense.

Origin of Brush (something) under the carpet

The idiom dates back to the early 1900s and is based on the idea of a lazy maid or homemaker sweeping dirt under a rug or carpet, rather than going to the trouble of getting a dust pan and dealing with the dirt to remove it from the home

error

Report Error

Do you see anything wrong?

Share your idioms

If you are really thankful, what do you do? You share.

Submit An Idiom

Make a Donation!

Help us update and complete more idioms

Donate

TODAY
to look like a drowned rat

To be very wet

Example:

Because of forgetting bringing an umbrella, I look like a drowned rat when it rains.

Join the Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates!

Darkmode