Conciseness: meaning, definitions and examples

When you want to emphasize clarity and the use of as few words as possible to convey an idea, especially in writing or speaking.

• The report is praised for its conciseness.
• Her conciseness made the instructions easy to follow.

Often used in the context of time, highlighting the briefness or short duration of speech or written content.

• The brevity of his speech left a strong impact on the audience.
• Brevity is essential during emergency briefings.

When you want to convey something clearly and precisely, without unnecessary words.

• The succinctness of her explanation helped everyone understand the concept.
• I appreciate the succinctness of this email; it gets directly to the point.

Used when a message is very short and direct, often with a blunt or unfriendly tone. This word sometimes has a negative connotation.

• His terse reply indicated he was not in the mood for conversation.
• The instructions were terse and left no room for questions.

Appropriate in academic or formal writing where conveying information with few words without losing meaning is essential.

• Her thesis is praised for its conciseness.
• The report's strength lies in its conciseness.

Effective for describing writing or speech that is concise and full of substance or meaning. It's often used with a positive connotation, suggesting wit or insightful clarity.

• Her comment was noted for its pithiness and wit.
• The pithiness of his article made it a quick yet informative read.

Best used to describe a style of speaking or writing that is very brief and often seems indifferent or blunt; can carry a slightly negative or disinterested connotation.

• His laconicism often leaves people unsure of his true feelings.
• She responded with her usual laconicism, saying just 'Yes'.

Typically refers to a style of speaking or writing that is brief to the point of being abrupt or curt. Often carries a negative connotation, indicating lack of warmth or friendliness.

• His terseness in conversation can come off as rude.
• The email was answered with unexpected terseness.