What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
concise
Example
Please keep your answers concise. [concise: adjective]
Example
The article provides a concise overview of the topic. [concise: adjective]
terse
Example
His terse reply left me feeling confused. [terse: adjective]
Example
She gave a terse explanation for her absence. [terse: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Concise is more commonly used than terse in everyday language. Concise is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while terse is more limited in its usage and is often reserved for negative situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between concise and terse?
Concise is more formal than terse. Concise is often used in academic or professional settings to describe clear and succinct writing or speech, while terse is more informal and can be perceived as blunt or rude in certain situations.
