Brief

/briːf/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A short or concise statement or summary.

The teacher asked for a brief on the project.

A set of instructions or information.

Before the event, we received a detailed brief on our roles.

verb

To give someone detailed information or instructions.

She will brief the new employees about the company policies.

To inform or summarize in a short manner.

He was briefed on the latest developments in the case.

adjective

Short in duration, extent, or length.

The meeting was brief, lasting only ten minutes.

Concise in expression; few words.

She gave a brief summary of the book.

Not having a long duration.

His stay in the city was brief, just a quick visit.

Middle English, from Old French 'bref', from Latin 'brevis'

brief encounter:

a short or casual meeting between people.

brief overview:

a short summary that covers the main points.

in brief:

in a few words; concisely.

to keep it short and simple

Let's keep it brief; I have to go soon.

to deliver a quick message

I'll be brief; just wanted to let you know we're on for lunch.