# gloss over

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gloss-over
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to talk about something briefly or ignore it because it is embarrassing or difficult. You use this when you don't want to give too much attention to a mistake or a problem.

For teachers: To treat a subject, especially a problem or error, with little detail or attention in order to conceal its importance or unpleasantness. This transitive phrasal verb is inseparable and requires a direct object.

## Examples

- He tried to gloss over his mistakes during the interview.
- The report mentions the company's successes but tends to gloss over the significant financial losses from last year.
- While the biography provides a detailed account of his political triumphs, it conspicuously glosses over the more controversial aspects of his private life.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He glossed the problem over." but "He glossed over the problem." — The phrasal verb is inseparable in this sense, so the object must follow the particle.

## Usage notes

- Usually takes a noun phrase representing a problem, mistake, or negative detail as its object.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'ignore' (which implies no mention at all) and 'explain away' (which implies giving a reason for the failure).

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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.