brushes - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
brushes Word Meanings
- a tool for painting or cleaning
- to clean or groom with a brush
- a light touch on a surface
brushes Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
brushes Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/brʌʃ/
US
/brʌʃ/
brushes Word Etymology
Brush: Bristle + root = brusk, from Old French 'broisse'. Imagine a painter with a bright brush sweeping over a canvas.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I pick up a brush and feel its weight in my hand. I move my wrist, give a small turn and a gentle push as the bristles skim the surface. I adjust how firm or light the touch is, keeping the stroke even while the color or dust changes under it. This tiny motion repeats, letting the idea take shape without words.
Real Context
Brush is both a noun and a verb in English. As a noun, it refers to a tool with bristles used for painting or cleaning, such as a paintbrush, a hairbrush, or a toothbrush. As a verb, to brush means to clean, groom, or sweep lightly across a surface. People also say brush stroke, brush off, brush up on something, or give something a quick brush. Learners often confuse brush with comb or broom, or mix up brush with sweep. English also uses idiomatic phrases like brush with danger or a brush of color. Understanding where brush fits in compound nouns helps with correct spelling and verb forms.
Usage Reminders
- Always check whether brush is a noun or a verb.
- Remember that painting uses paintbrush while cleaning uses a cleaning brush.
- Watch the spelling in compounds like brush stroke, brush up on, brush off.
- Be careful not to confuse brush with comb or broom.
- Note that idioms with brush may not translate literally into your language.
Common Misconceptions
- Brush is only for cleaning, not for painting.
- Paintbrush and brush are the same thing in all contexts.
- Brush always means the action of sweeping, not brushing teeth or hair.
- Brushing a surface is identical to sweeping the floor or cleaning with a broom.
- Idioms with brush always translate directly.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate brush clearly into distinct noun and verb uses, with many idioms that hinge on subtle collocations; learners often default to non-native equivalents and must memorize contexts like brush stroke versus brushing teeth.
Learning Tips
- 1) Practice with two nouns: paintbrush vs cleaning brush.
- 2) Learn common collocations: brush stroke, brush off, brush up on.
- 3) Distinguish brush as cleaning tool vs painting tool in sentences.
- 4) Memorize brush with idioms in context, not literal translation.
- 5) Pair with related tools (comb, broom) to avoid mix-ups.
- 6) Use flashcards for spelling of derived forms (brushed, brushing).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'brushes' mean?
A.A form of exercise
B.Tools for painting or grooming
C.A type of animal
D.A cooking technique
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'brushes' correctly?
A.He brushes the grass in the park.
B.She brushes her teeth every morning.
C.They brush the sky with colors.
D.The artist brushes the wood to make furniture.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'brushes'?
A.Glue
B.Pencils
C.Combs
D.Erasers
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'brushes'?
A.Cleans
B.Neglects
C.Polishes
D.Uses
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where the word 'brushes' would be used?
A.They are planning a trip to the mountains.
B.He decided to go for a run instead.
C.She enjoys using the tools for painting.
D.The chef prepared a delicious meal.
Related Listening
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