of short duration or distance, concise and to the point, giving only the most important information

keep it brief, brief and to the point, brief someone on something

in brief, brief encounter, brief moment

Formal and Informal Expressions of brief

In different contexts, you can replace 'brief' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'concise, succinct' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'short, quick' is a commonplace synonym.

brief: Explore its Definition & Usage

brief Definition

1of short duration or distance
2concise and to the point
3giving only the most important information

Using brief: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "brief" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The meeting was brief, lasting only 15 minutes.
Example
Please give me a brief summary of the report.
Example
He wrote a brief note to his wife before leaving for work.
Example
I had a brief conversation with her at the party.

brief Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for brief

Antonyms for brief

Idioms Using brief

keep it brief
to be concise and not take up too much time
Example
I have a lot of work to do, so please keep it brief.
brief and to the point
communicating in a direct and concise manner
Example
His presentation was brief and to the point, which made it easy to understand.
brief someone on something
to give someone a summary or update on a particular topic
Example
Can you please brief me on the latest developments in the project?

Phrases with brief

in brief
in a few words; briefly
Example
In brief, we need to increase our sales by 20% this quarter.
brief encounter
a chance meeting with someone that is brief but memorable
Example
Their brief encounter on the train left a lasting impression on both of them.
brief moment
a very short period of time
Example
For a brief moment, I thought I saw my ex-boyfriend in the crowd.

Origins of brief

from Old French 'brief', meaning 'short'

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Summary: brief in Brief

The term 'brief' [briːf] refers to something of short duration or distance, or something that is concise and to the point. It can describe a meeting, conversation, or summary, as in 'The meeting was brief, lasting only 15 minutes.' 'Brief' also extends into phrases like 'in brief,' and idioms like 'keep it brief,' denoting the importance of being concise and not taking up too much time.