The phrase “brush shoulders” is a common idiom used in the English language. It is often used to describe a situation where two people come into contact with each other, usually in a crowded or busy place. In this article, we will explore the meaning and origins of the phrase “brush shoulders,” as well as its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
The phrase “brush shoulders” is an idiom that means to come into contact with someone else’s shoulder, usually unintentionally. It can also refer to a situation where two people come into close proximity to each other, without actually touching.
Origin
The origins of the phrase “brush shoulders” are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the early 19th century. The phrase may have been inspired by the physical act of brushing shoulders with someone in a crowded or busy place.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the phrase “brush shoulders” means “to come into contact with someone else’s shoulder, usually unintentionally.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “to come into close proximity with someone, especially in a crowded or busy place.”
Associations
The phrase “brush shoulders” is often associated with crowded or busy places, such as a crowded train station or a busy street. It can also be used to describe a chance encounter with someone, or a situation where two people come into close proximity to each other.
Synonyms
Synonyms for “brush shoulders” include “rub shoulders,” “bump into,” “collide with,” “meet by chance,” and “come into close proximity with.”
Antonyms
Antonyms for “brush shoulders” include “avoid,” “stay away from,” “keep a distance from,” and “not come into contact with.”
The same root words
The phrase “brush shoulders” does not have any root words as it is an idiom.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the phrase “brush shoulders”:
- “I accidentally brushed shoulders with a stranger on the train this morning.”
- “The concert was so crowded that I kept brushing shoulders with the person next to me.”
- “I was walking down the street when I brushed shoulders with my old high school friend.”
- “I try to avoid brushing shoulders with people in public places because I don’t like being touched.”