What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pithy
Example
The pithy saying 'less is more' is often used in design. [pithy: adjective]
Example
She gave a pithy response that left everyone thinking. [pithy: adjective]
terse
Example
His terse email conveyed his disappointment with the project. [terse: adjective]
Example
She spoke in a terse tone, indicating her annoyance. [terse: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Terse is more commonly used than pithy in everyday language. Terse is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pithy is less common and refers to a specific type of concise expression.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pithy and terse?
Both pithy and terse can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, terse may be more commonly used in formal settings due to its emphasis on clarity and directness.
