Synonyms for

Shrugged

Verb / ʃrʌgd / Another word for shrugged — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to raise and lower your shoulders to show that you do not know or do not care about something

Synonyms & similar words

shrug dismissed ignored disregarded discounted pooh-poohed belittled minimized underplayed downplayed de-emphasized reduced diminished lessened weakened softened moderated

Synonyms by register

Formal

gestured indicated

Informal

blew off dismissed waved away

Literary

lifted raised

Antonyms

accepted acknowledged cared concerned interested responded supported

Common collocations

  • shrugged his shoulders
  • shrugged it off
  • shrugged in response
  • shrugged with indifference
  • shrugged helplessly
  • shrugged away responsibility
  • shrugged a question

Word family

noun shrug
verb shrug

Usage note

Typically used to express indifference, ignorance, or helplessness. The phrase 'shrugged his shoulders' is a very common collocation.

Example sentences

  1. She shrugged her shoulders and said she didn't know.
  2. He just shrugged off the criticism and continued with his work.
  3. I shrugged my shoulders and walked away.
  4. When I asked him if he wanted to go out, he just shrugged and said he didn't care.
  5. The teacher shrugged when asked if we had homework tonight.

Quotes

  • "I don't know," she shrugged.
  • "It doesn't matter," he shrugged.
  • He just shrugged his shoulders and walked away.

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