Nutshell Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
nutshell
[หnสtสษl ]
Definition
summary, explanation
A nutshell is a hard shell that encases the seed of a nut. Figuratively, the term is often used to refer to a concise summary or an explanation of a complex issue. When someone says they will explain something 'in a nutshell', they mean they will provide a brief and clear overview. The term emphasizes brevity and clarity, cutting through excessive details to present the essential points.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- To put it in a nutshell, we need more time to finish the project.
- The report, in a nutshell, shows a significant increase in sales.
- She explained the plan in a nutshell during the meeting.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Literature
- Shakespeare used similar metaphors to convey complex thoughts in simpler terms in plays like 'Hamlet.'
- Writers often employ the concept of a nutshell to convey large themes succinctly, making literature more approachable.
Pop Culture
- The phrase has been popularized in various media, often used when characters need to explain something quickly.
- Thereโs a popular board game called 'In a Nutshell' where players guess definitions based on brief clues.
Psychology
- Humans tend to prefer concise information due to cognitive overload; a nutshell approach helps in understanding complex ideas.
- Summarizing concepts into a nutshell format can aid memory retention and improve communication skills.
Science
- In biology, a nutshell refers literally to the casing that protects seeds, illustrating natureโs efficiency in design.
- Research shows that conveying information in simplified formats can increase learning outcomes.
Origin of 'nutshell'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'nutshell' dates back to the 14th century, combining 'nut' (the seed) and 'shell' (the outer casing).
- The phrase 'in a nutshell' suggests summarizing a large amount of information into something small, like how a nut is small within its shell.
The word 'nutshell' originates from the combination of 'nut' and 'shell'. The term has its roots in Old English and Middle English, where 'nut' is derived from the Proto-Germanic word '*nautaz', and 'shell' comes from the Old English 'sceoll' or 'scell', meaning a hard outer covering. The phrase began to take on a figurative meaning in the 14th century, becoming a popular idiomatic expression. The metaphorical use emphasizes the idea of something being small yet containing essential information, much like how a nut is housed within a tiny shell.