What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shortness
Example
The shortness of the meeting was appreciated by everyone. [shortness: noun]
Example
I was surprised by the shortness of the book. [shortness: noun]
Example
The shortness of breath made it difficult to climb the stairs. [shortness: noun]
brevity
Example
The speaker's brevity was appreciated by the audience. [brevity: noun]
Example
The article was written with brevity in mind. [brevity: noun]
Example
Due to the brevity of the meeting, we were able to finish early. [brevity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Brevity is more commonly used than shortness in everyday language, especially in the context of communication and writing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between shortness and brevity?
Both shortness and brevity can be used in formal and informal contexts, but brevity may be perceived as more formal due to its Latin origin and positive connotation.
