# brush by

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/brush-by
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

To pass very close to someone or something, often touching them lightly as you go. You use this when there is almost no space between you and the other person.

For teachers: To pass someone or something with a glancing physical contact. The verb is typically used intransitively or followed by a prepositional object.

## Examples

- He brushed by me in the hallway without saying hello.
- As the crowd pushed toward the exit, several people brushed by her, nearly knocking her bag off her shoulder.
- The cyclist brushed by the parked cars with such speed that the side mirrors vibrated in his wake.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He brushed by to me." but "He brushed by me." — The phrase does not require an additional preposition like 'to' before the object.

## Usage notes

- Usually followed by a person or a physical object to describe a near-miss or light contact.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'brush against', which suggests a more static or lingering contact, whereas 'brush by' emphasizes the motion of passing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.