Terseness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
💬
terseness
[ˈtɜːrsnəs ]
Definitions
in communication
The quality of being concise and to the point in speech or writing.
Synonyms
brevity, conciseness, succinctness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| terseness |
Used to describe a style of speaking or writing that is brief and to the point, often in a way that seems curt or brusque.
|
| conciseness |
Describes a style of presenting information that is succinct and free of unnecessary detail, often used in formal and academic settings.
|
| brevity |
Refers to the quality of being brief in communication. It is often used in a positive sense to describe conciseness and clarity.
|
| succinctness |
Used to describe expression that is compact and precise, without any wasted words. It is considered a positive attribute in most communications.
|
Examples of usage
- His terseness in emails often led to misunderstandings.
- She appreciated the terseness of his instructions.
literary style
The use of few words in a way that is effective and powerful.
Synonyms
conciseness, economy of language, pithiness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| terseness |
Used in the same vein as earlier but with a nuanced undertone that can often come across as brusque or curt, potentially offending others.
|
| conciseness |
Used when describing someone's ability to communicate clearly and succinctly without wasting words; a positive trait emphasizing clarity.
|
| pithiness |
Used to describe a style of speaking or writing that is both brief and meaningful, often with a witty or impactful quality.
|
| economy of language |
Used in formal or literary contexts to describe the efficient use of words to convey meaning without unnecessary elaboration.
|
Examples of usage
- The poet's terseness in her verses left a lasting impact on the readers.
- His novel was praised for its terseness and clarity.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Communication
- In effective communication, terseness can enhance the clarity of messages, making them easier to understand.
- Many professionals recommend terseness in business writing for improved communication efficiency.
- Brevity is often associated with confidence, as it displays assertiveness and clarity in ideas.
Literature
- Famous authors like Ernest Hemingway mastered terseness, capturing complex emotions in simple, concise language.
- Terseness can create dramatic tension in poetry and prose, compelling readers with its intensity.
- Literary movements such as Modernism often favored terseness to evoke deeper meanings through minimalistic styles.
Psychology
- Research shows that terse communication can lead to a higher perception of competence and trustworthiness.
- When people communicate tersely, they may appear more open and engaged in conversation, leading to better social interactions.
- However, excessive terseness can sometimes be perceived as abruptness or rudeness, influencing interpersonal dynamics.
Pop Culture
- In movies and TV shows, characters known for their terseness often have strong, decisive personalities, such as detectives or military officers.
- Memorable catchphrases in pop culture frequently rely on terseness for impact, like 'Just do it' or 'Live long and prosper.'
- Terseness in dialogue can become a stylistic choice for screenwriters, emphasizing key moments or emotional shifts.
Origin of 'terseness'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'terseness' comes from the Latin root 'tersus,' meaning 'polished' or 'clean,' reflecting clarity in brevity.
- It originated in the mid-19th century, evolving from the adjective 'terse,' which describes succinct language.
- The use of the word has grown over the years, particularly in literary contexts and communication studies.
The word 'terseness' is derived from the adjective 'terse', which comes from the Latin word 'tersus', meaning 'clean' or 'neat'. Over time, 'terse' evolved to represent the quality of being effectively concise in communication. The concept of terseness has been valued in various forms of expression, from literature to everyday conversation, for its ability to convey meaning clearly and efficiently.
See also: tersely.