WordGarden.iobrevity
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /brˈɛvɪti/
US
- /ˈbrɛvəti/
Meanings
Noun
concise use of words
shortness in duration
Beyond the definition
Brevity is the art of being concise—whether in your speech or in the passing of time. While we often think of it as using few words to say a lot, it also describes the fleeting nature of moments, like the brevity of a summer sunset. In communication, it's a mark of skill: a storyteller might capture a whole world in just a handful of sentences, or a lawyer might speak with brevity to keep a jury's attention. It's all about making an impact without wasting a word or a syllable. As the saying goes, brevity is the soul of wit!
Brevity refers to the quality of being concise in expression or short in duration. It is more than simply being brief; it implies a deliberate economy of language or a short span of time. In writing and speech, brevity suggests effectiveness through conciseness—choosing exactly the right words to communicate the essentials without unnecessary filler.
Historically, brevity was a cornerstone of rhetoric—the art of persuasive speaking. Ancient orators believed that clear, succinct arguments were far more impactful than rambling ones. This value persists today in journalism, where headlines must be sharp, and in business communication, where efficiency is vital. You might praise an author who "favors brevity" for avoiding flowery language, or you might lament the "lack of brevity" in a long, drawn-out meeting.
Beyond words, brevity describes the transitory nature of things, such as the "brevity of life" or the "brevity of a chance encounter." It reminds us that something can be powerful precisely because it is short-lived. However, it's important to note that brevity isn't always appropriate; complex topics sometimes require detailed explanations. But when clarity and impact are paramount, brevity is often the key. As Shakespeare famously wrote in Hamlet, "Brevity is the soul of wit." To embrace brevity is to master the power of saying more with less.
Examples
- 1
Short reply
I liked the brevity of his reply.
- 2
Business emails
In business emails, brevity is usually a good thing.
- 3
Reports
The report was praised for its brevity and clarity.
- 4
Too little detail
Some readers were frustrated by the article's brevity because they wanted more detail.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Limiting detail
For the sake of brevity, I'll discuss only the main points.
- Phrasefor the sake of brevity
to keep things short
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- brevitynoun