adverb
in short
in SHORT
In short (adverb) means used to introduce a brief summary of what has just been said or is about to be explained. Example: “The costs rose, the deadline slipped and the client walked. In short, it was a disaster.”
adverb
1
Used to introduce a brief summary of what has just been said or is about to be explained.
"The costs rose, the deadline slipped and the client walked. In short, it was a disaster."
"In short, nobody knows what happens next."
How to use in short
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishUsed before you sum something up in one sentence.
When to use it
Neutral; suitable for formal writing as well as speech.
Memory tip
Do not confuse in short with in the short term, which is about time rather than summary.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
in short, then
in short, no
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The costs rose, the deadline slipped and the client walked. _____, it was a disaster.
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between in short and in brief?
They are close synonyms. In short usually caps off an argument already made and often carries a verdict; in brief more often introduces a summary before the detail arrives, as in a briefing or abstract.
Can in short start a sentence?
Yes, and that is its most common position, followed by a comma. It can also appear mid-sentence between commas, though this is less usual.
Is in short too informal for academic writing?
No. It is perfectly acceptable in essays and reports, where it signals to the reader that the conclusion of a section is arriving.
What is the meaning of in short?
"in short" (adverb) means used to introduce a brief summary of what has just been said or is about to be explained.
