# sweep aside

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/sweep-aside
Updated: 2026-10-23

## Definition

to ignore something or treat it as unimportant because you want to focus on something else. You use this when someone quickly rejects an idea, a problem, or a feeling.

For teachers: To dismiss or disregard something abruptly and decisively. Transitive; often implies a refusal to allow obstacles, objections, or emotions to delay progress or influence a decision.

## Examples

- He swept aside my concerns and continued with his plan.
- The committee swept aside all the legal objections to ensure the project started on time.
- The prime minister swept aside calls for a public inquiry, insisting that the internal investigation had been sufficiently rigorous.

## Usage notes

- The object is usually an abstract noun like 'concerns', 'objections', 'doubts', or 'protests'.
- Teaching tip: The verb 'sweep' provides a strong visual anchor of clearing a table with one hand motion; contrast with 'dismiss', which is more formal and less visual.

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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.