Shrug

usgb/ʃrʌɡ/
verb

To raise your shoulders and then drop them to show that you do not know or care about something.

I asked him if he wanted to go out to dinner, but he just shrugged.
Visual representation of "shrug" - To raise your shoulders and then drop them to show that you do not know or care about something.

Often appears as...

  • shrug off
  • shrug shoulders
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "shrug"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Non-committal

Shrug as a verb often suggests a lack of commitment or certainty.

Illustration for Non-committal
When asked about her plans, she would just shrug.
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Indifference

It may express indifference when someone doesn't have a strong opinion.

Illustration for Indifference
They shrugged when the film ended, unimpressed.
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Impolite Dismissal

Using 'shrug off' can sometimes seem impolite or dismissive.

Illustration for Impolite Dismissal
He just shrugged off my concerns as if they were nothing.
Visual representation of the word "Shrug"

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