brief

If something is brief, it’s quick or short. This word is an adjective:

• After a brief delay, our plane left the airport.
• The teacher asked for a brief summary of the reading assignment.
• The meeting was brief. It lasted just fifteen minutes.
• Can we talk for a minute? I’ll be brief.
• During the performance there was a brief intermission. (intermission: a short break for the audience and the performers)

To use this word as an adverb, add "ly" to the end of it:

• My computer briefly stopped working.
• Our boss spoke briefly about what happened in the office last week.
• The movie was briefly interrupted because there was a problem with the projector.

It’s also possible to use "brief" as a verb. In this case, "brief" means to provide information in a condensed (shortened) form:

• The generals were briefed on the situation in Iraq before making plans to add additional troops.
• A spokesperson for the company will brief the press regarding an upcoming merger.

Click here to learn more words.

February 12, 2013