briefly — for a short time or in a few words
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: for a short time or in a few words
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈbriːfli/
Example Sentences
- The celebrity appeared briefly at the party and then disappeared like a ninja.
- Can you briefly tell me why my pizza delivery took three hours?
- The professor briefly explained the theory before assigning 50 pages of homework.
briefly
ADVERB[/ˈbriːfli/]
for a short time or in a few words
for a short time or in a few words
Speak briefly, focus chiefly!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin 'brevis' meaning 'short', the word 'brief' entered English through Old French and became established in medieval usage. The adverbial form 'briefly' was created by attaching the suffix '-ly' to 'brief', combining the concept of brevity with the function of modifying verbs or adjectives to mean 'in a short or concise manner'.
Breakdown
brief (from Latin brevis, 'short') + -ly (adverb-forming suffix indicating manner or extent).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The celebrity appeared briefly at the party and then disappeared like a ninja.”
“Can you briefly tell me why my pizza delivery took three hours?”
“The professor briefly explained the theory before assigning 50 pages of homework.”
“I briefly considered becoming a professional sleeper, but the competition was too fierce.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.