Shorthand: meaning, definitions and examples

📝

Add to dictionary

shorthand

[ˈʃɔːrthænd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

writing

A system of rapid handwriting that uses symbols or abbreviations to represent words or phrases.

Synonyms

stenography, stenotype, stenotypy, tachygraphy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shorthand	Used as a general term for any system of rapid writing, particularly for taking notes or transcribing speech quickly. He took the lecture notes in shorthand Many journalists use shorthand to quickly jot down quotes
stenography	Refers to the practice of writing in shorthand, often in a professional context such as court reporting or transcription services. She pursued a career in stenography after completing her certification Stenography is a valuable skill in legal proceedings
stenotype	Specific to the use of a stenotype machine, commonly employed by court reporters and in legal settings. The court reporter used a stenotype machine to transcribe the trial Learning to use a stenotype requires special training
stenotypy	Another term closely related to stenotype, referring to the method or practice of using a stenotype machine. Stenotypy is essential for accurate legal transcription Modern stenotypy involves the use of computerized systems
tachygraphy	An older term for shorthand writing, often associated with historical or classical contexts. It is rarely used in modern language. In ancient times, tachygraphy was a skill used by scribes The museum has exhibits on tachygraphy from the Roman era

Examples of usage

Journalists often use shorthand to take notes during interviews.
She wrote the message in shorthand to save time.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

language

A shortened form of a word or phrase used to represent the full form.

Synonyms

abbreviation, contraction, symbol.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shorthand	Shorthand is often used to refer to a method of rapid writing by using abbreviations or symbols. It is commonly used by secretaries, journalists, and stenographers. She's skilled in shorthand and can take notes quickly during meetings. He learned shorthand to improve his note-taking skills in lectures.
abbreviation	Abbreviation is used to shorten a word or phrase by using the first letters or parts of the word. It is commonly seen in written text, including notes, academic papers, and casual writing. The abbreviation 'Dr.' stands for 'Doctor'. In his recipe, he used the abbreviation 'tbsp' for 'tablespoon'.
contraction	Contraction is commonly used in spoken and informal written English. It combines two words into a shorter form, often with an apostrophe. It creates more conversational and relaxed sentences. 'Can't' is a contraction of 'cannot'. 'She's' is a contraction of 'she is' or 'she has'.
symbol	Symbol is a mark or character used as a conventional representation of an object, function, or process. It is seen in mathematics, science, and various other disciplines. The heart is a common symbol of love. In math, '+' is the symbol for addition.

Examples of usage

The term 'ASAP' is a common shorthand for 'as soon as possible.'
Doctors use medical shorthand in their notes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'shorthand' has been used since the 16th century, combining 'short' and 'hand' to describe writing that is quicker than usual.
It was developed as a more efficient way to record speech, especially in courtrooms and during business meetings.

History

The earliest forms of shorthand can be traced back to ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans, who used it for recording speeches.
In the 19th century, various shorthand systems were popularized, including 'Pitman' and 'Gregg', which are still taught today.

Technology

Digital tools and software have modernized shorthand, allowing for the transcription of voice to text almost instantly.
Some apps mimic shorthand styles, making it easier to take notes quickly without traditional pen and paper.

Education

Many schools and vocational programs offer shorthand as a skill, particularly for aspiring secretaries and journalists.
Learning shorthand can enhance listening and concentration skills, as one must be attentive while writing quickly.

Pop Culture

Shorthand appears in movies and TV shows as a symbol of speed and efficiency, often showing characters quickly jotting down important information.
The character Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter series is known for her quick note-taking skills, showcasing the importance of shorthand in academia.

Translations

Translations of the word "shorthand" in other languages:

🇵🇹 taquigrafia

🇮🇳 लघु रूप

🇩🇪 Kurzschrift

🇮🇩 stenografi

🇺🇦 стенографія

🇵🇱 stenografia

🇯🇵 速記

🇫🇷 sténographie

🇪🇸 taquigrafía

🇹🇷 stenografi

🇰🇷 속기

🇸🇦 الاختزال

🇨🇿 stenografie

🇸🇰 stenografia

🇨🇳 速记

🇸🇮 stenografija

🇮🇸 skammstafanir

🇰🇿 стенография

🇬🇪 სტენოგრაფია

🇦🇿 stenoqrafiya

🇲🇽 taquigrafía

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,540, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
13537 moiety
13538 simulator
13539 rheumatism
13540 shorthand
13541 ravine
13542 leaping
13543 shrill
...