adjective
succinct
suhk-SINKT
Succinct (adjective) means Expressed clearly in very few words, with nothing unnecessary included. Example: “Her answer was succinct: three sentences that settled the whole argument.”
adjective
1
Expressed clearly in very few words, with nothing unnecessary included.
"Her answer was succinct: three sentences that settled the whole argument."
"Try to keep the summary succinct — one page at most."
How to use succinct
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishShort and clear, with no wasted words.
When to use it
Neutral to slightly formal; common in business, academic and editorial contexts.
Memory tip
The adverb is succinctly, most often in the phrase "to put it succinctly".
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
succinct summary
succinct answer
put it succinctly
succinct and clear
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her answer was _____: three sentences that settled the whole argument.
Etymology
From Latin succinctus "girded up, tucked in", the past participle of succingere, from sub- "from below" and cingere "to gird".
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between succinct and concise?
They are close to interchangeable. "Concise" simply means short and to the point; "succinct" adds a suggestion of neatness and precision, of saying something well as well as briefly. A concise reply is short; a succinct one is short and elegant.
Is succinct a compliment?
Almost always. Calling something succinct praises the writer or speaker for clarity. The nearby word "terse" can imply brusqueness, but succinct rarely does.
How do you pronounce succinct?
Suhk-SINKT. The first c is a k sound and the second is an s sound, and the stress falls on the second syllable.
What is the meaning of succinct?
"succinct" (adjective) means expressed clearly in very few words, with nothing unnecessary included.
