What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
brevity
Example
The speaker's brevity made the presentation clear and easy to understand. [brevity: noun]
Example
In journalism, brevity is important to convey information quickly and efficiently. [brevity: noun]
terse
Example
His terse reply indicated his disapproval of the suggestion. [terse: adjective]
Example
The teacher's feedback was always terse but helpful. [terse: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Brevity is more commonly used than terse in everyday language. Brevity is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as presentations, journalism, or any situation where concise communication is valued. Terse, on the other hand, is less common but can be used when describing someone's communication style or providing feedback on written or spoken language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between brevity and terse?
While brevity is generally considered more formal, terse can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Terse carries a slightly informal tone due to its potential negative connotation, but it can still be used in professional settings when describing someone's communication style or providing concise feedback.
