Brief

Definition

Brief is used as an adjective, noun, and verb. As an adjective, it means short in duration, concise, or succinct. As a noun, it refers to a concise summary or an outline of facts or legal arguments. As a verb, it means to inform or instruct someone in a concise manner.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /brif/
• Respelling: BREEF

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /briːf/
• Respelling: BREEF

Etymology

The word "brief" originates from the Latin "brevis," meaning "short" or "concise." This term entered Middle English through Old French "brief," initially used to describe something of short duration or limited in length.

Derivatives

• Briefly (adverb)
• Brevity (noun)
• Briefing (noun)
• Briefed (verb)
• Debrief (verb)

Synonyms

• Concise
• Short
• Summary

Antonyms

• Lengthy
• Detailed
• Extended

Usage

The term "brief" is commonly used in contexts where conciseness or shortness of duration is emphasized, as in, "She gave a brief presentation," or "The lawyer prepared a brief for the case."

Related Terms

• Summary: A concise statement of the main points.
• Outline: A general description or summary.
• Synopsis: A brief summary of a larger work.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Short in duration: Refers to something that does not last long.
  • Example: "The meeting was brief but productive."
• Concise or succinct: Describes language or information that is expressed in few words.
  • Example: "She gave a brief summary of the report."

Noun

• A concise summary or outline: A short written or spoken statement of essential information.
  • Example: "The team prepared a brief for the presentation."
• A written legal document: A summary of facts and legal arguments used in court cases.
  • Example: "The lawyer filed a brief with the court."

Verb

• To inform or instruct concisely: To provide someone with essential information in a short format.
  • Example: "The manager briefed the team before the meeting."