brief

The word “brief” means lasting only a short time. In plain terms, short in time or words, or (as a noun) a set of instructions/summary given before a task or legal case.

“Brief” is pronounced BREEF (/ˈbɹiːf/ in IPA).

Here is “brief” used in a sentence: “They exchanged a brief greeting before rushing off.”

Depending on how it is used, “brief” can be an adjective, a noun and a verb.

The word “brief” comes from Latin. From Old French brief, ultimately from Latin brevis ("short") — the same root that gives us "abbreviate" and "brevity".

“Brief” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

“Brief” has 5 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: lasting only a short time.

"Brief" is an adjective meaning short-lived or concise, as in a brief meeting. "Briefs" is a plural noun with separate meanings — close-fitting underwear, or written legal summaries prepared for a court. Although they share a root, they work differently in a sentence and are not interchangeable.

When brief describes duration, its main opposites are long, lengthy, and prolonged. Other antonyms include extended and drawn-out. If brief is being used to mean concise, opposites such as detailed or wordy fit better. A brief pause naturally contrasts with a long, lingering delay.

Brief is neutral and works comfortably in both formal and casual settings. You might mention a brief chat with a friend or note a brief statement in an official report. It carries no strong tone of its own, which makes it a versatile, everyday adjective for anything short-lived.

A brief shower might last only a few minutes before the sun returns. Someone could make a brief appearance at a party, staying just long enough to say hello, or send a brief reply of a single line. Each shows brief meaning short-lived rather than lasting.