brief
UK: briːf | US: briːf
adj. short in duration or concise in expression
n. a concise summary or set of instructions
vt. to give someone essential information or instructions
The word "brief" originates from the Old French "bref," meaning "short," which itself derives from the Latin "brevis." The Latin root "brev-" conveys the core idea of shortness or conciseness, preserved in modern English words like "brevity" and "abbreviate." Over time, "brief" expanded from describing physical length (e.g., a short letter) to abstract brevity (e.g., a concise legal summary). The verb form emerged later, reflecting the act of condensing information.
The meeting was brief but productive.
She handed him a brief outlining the project’s goals.
The lawyer will brief the team before the trial.
His explanation was too brief to be helpful.
The CEO gave a brief statement to the press.