What context can I use each word in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

brief

Example

Please give me a brief overview of the project. [brief: adjective]

Example

The meeting was brief, lasting only 15 minutes. [brief: noun]

short

Example

She wore a short dress to the party. [short: adjective]

Example

I'm sorry, but I have a short amount of time to talk. [short: noun]

Definitions of brief and short

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Key differences and similarities of brief and short

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Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Short is more commonly used than brief in everyday language. Short is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while brief is more specific and often used in professional or academic settings.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between brief and short?

While brief has a more formal connotation and is commonly used in professional or academic settings, short is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.