Skate over
verb
To not complete or discuss something properly or thoroughly, usually in order to avoid it.
He skated over the main issues during his speech.
Often appears as...
- skate over the issue
- skate over the details
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb
To move swiftly and directly.
The bird seemed to skate over the surface of the water.
Often appears as...
- skate over the water
- skate over the ice
verb
To not complete or discuss something properly or thoroughly, usually in order to avoid it.
He skated over the main issues during his speech.
Often appears as...
- skate over the issue
- skate over the details
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb
To move swiftly and directly.
The bird seemed to skate over the surface of the water.
Often appears as...
- skate over the water
- skate over the ice
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Avoidance Tactic
Often used to tactfully dodge sensitive or uncomfortable topics in conversation or writing.
She expertly skated over her previous job's controversy.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversation Flow
Can indicate a smooth transition in dialogue, even though key points are being omitted.
In the interview, he skillfully skated over his weak points.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Dismissal
May suggest that the speaker is intentionally overlooking details without making it obvious.
The teacher skated over the incorrect answers quickly.
Pro Tip 1/3Avoidance Tactic
Often used to tactfully dodge sensitive or uncomfortable topics in conversation or writing.
She expertly skated over her previous job's controversy.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversation Flow
Can indicate a smooth transition in dialogue, even though key points are being omitted.
In the interview, he skillfully skated over his weak points.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Dismissal
May suggest that the speaker is intentionally overlooking details without making it obvious.
The teacher skated over the incorrect answers quickly.
Pro Tip 1/3Avoidance Tactic
Often used to tactfully dodge sensitive or uncomfortable topics in conversation or writing.
She expertly skated over her previous job's controversy.
Pro Tip 2/3Conversation Flow
Can indicate a smooth transition in dialogue, even though key points are being omitted.
In the interview, he skillfully skated over his weak points.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Dismissal
May suggest that the speaker is intentionally overlooking details without making it obvious.
The teacher skated over the incorrect answers quickly.
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