brief

Meanings

1. 1adjectivecomparable

   Lasting only a short time.

   Grammar: Can be used before a noun (a brief visit) or after a linking verb (the visit was brief).

   Patterns

   • a brief moment
   • a brief period
   • be brief

   We had a brief chat before the meeting started.

   There was a brief silence after his question.

   Her stay in the hospital was brief.

2. 2adjectivecomparable

   Using few words; expressed in a concise way.

   Grammar: Often used before nouns like 'statement', 'note', or 'summary'.

   Patterns

   • a brief statement
   • a brief note
   • keep something brief

   He gave a brief explanation of the new rules.

   Please keep your answer brief.

   She wrote a brief note to say thank you.

3. 3nouncountablelegal

   A document that summarizes the facts and legal arguments of a case, prepared for a court.

   Grammar: Common in legal contexts; plural is 'briefs'.

   Patterns

   • file a brief
   • submit a brief
   • a legal brief

   The lawyer filed a brief with the court.

   The judge read the brief carefully before the hearing.

   Both sides submitted briefs outlining their arguments.

4. 4verbtransitive

   To give someone essential information or instructions before an event or task.

   Grammar: Takes an object: brief someone (on something).

   Patterns

   • brief someone on something
   • brief someone about something

   The manager briefed the team on the new project.

   She was briefed about the security arrangements.

   Journalists were briefed before the press conference.

Word forms

Common combinations

a brief moment

For a brief moment, I thought I had lost my keys.

a brief statement

The company issued a brief statement about the changes.

in brief

In brief, the report says we need to cut costs.

brief someone on something

The officer briefed us on the new procedures.

Synonyms and how they differ

short

Neutral about length; 'brief' often suggests that the shortness is appropriate or intended.

concise

Focuses on expressing much in few words, often with approval; 'brief' can simply mean short in time.

fleeting

Suggests something passing very quickly, often with a sense of loss; 'brief' is more neutral.

Opposites

Word family

briefly adverb

For a short time or in few words.

briefing noun

A meeting or document giving essential information.

brevity noun

The quality of being brief; shortness.

Commonly confused: brief or briefs?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “brief”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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