Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But crude benchmarks were struggling for direction on Monday, suggesting investors were shrugging off fears that the conflict in the Middle East could escalate amid reports of a potential peace plan.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

It was as if they were shrugging off the old Hollywood clichés about fairy tale dressing along with the acres of cloth that usually goes with them.

From New York Times • Mar. 28, 2022

He scored USC’s first touchdown moments later after brushing off an arm tackle as if he were shrugging off a coat.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 2, 2017

Cieszynski said traders were shrugging off a shortfall in revenues, which were lower than expected at $352m.

From The Guardian • Sep. 28, 2016

Try it now; put them up high, as though you were shrugging them; and expand your chest too; you mustn't cramp that.

From The Front Yard by Woolson, Constance Fenimore