Briefness is a term that is used to describe something that is short or concise. It is a quality that is highly valued in many fields, including writing, public speaking, and business. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of briefness, as well as its origins, associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Briefness can be defined as the quality of being brief or concise. It is the opposite of verbosity, which is the use of more words than necessary to express an idea. Briefness is often associated with clarity and efficiency, as it allows the speaker or writer to communicate their message in a clear and effective manner.
Origin
The word “briefness” originated from the Old English word “bryfnes,” which meant “shortness.” The word has been in use since the 14th century and has been used in various contexts throughout history.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, briefness is defined as “the quality of being brief or concise.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “the quality or state of being brief.” Both definitions emphasize the idea of brevity and conciseness.
Associations
Briefness is often associated with efficiency, clarity, and effectiveness. It is a quality that is highly valued in many fields, including business, law, and journalism. In these fields, being able to communicate a message clearly and concisely is essential.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of briefness include conciseness, terseness, succinctness, and brevity. These words all emphasize the idea of being short and to the point.
Antonyms
The antonyms of briefness include verbosity, long-windedness, and prolixity. These words all describe the use of more words than necessary to express an idea.
The same root words
The root word of briefness is “brief,” which means short or concise. Other words that share this root include briefcase, briefing, and briefly.
Example Sentences
- The speaker’s briefness was appreciated by the audience, who were able to understand the message clearly and quickly.
- The lawyer’s briefness in the courtroom was essential to winning the case.
- The journalist’s briefness in the article allowed readers to quickly grasp the main points of the story.
- The manager’s briefness in the meeting allowed everyone to stay on track and make efficient use of their time.