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Brief - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Brief means short in duration, length, or detail. It can describe a concise summary, a quick meeting, or something not lengthy. For example, a brief speech is to the point.

brief

/brif/ /briːf/

Definition:

Short in duration or concise in expression.

Synonyms:

concise, short, succinct, summary, abridged

Part of Speech:

adjective, noun, verb

Antonyms:

lengthy, prolonged

Common Collocations:

brief meeting, brief overview, brief description, brief pause, brief conversation

Derivatives:

briefly, briefing

Usage Tips:

Use "brief" to describe something short in time or words; avoid overusing it for emphasis.

Common Phrases:

in brief, hold no brief for, brief encounter

Etymology:

From Old French "brief," Latin "brevis," meaning short or concise.

Examples:

  • 1. She gave a brief explanation of the project.
  • 2. The meeting was brief but productive.
  • 3. He wrote a brief note before leaving.
  • 4. Please keep your answers brief and clear.

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