brief crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Q: Why are there so many answers for a "brief" clue?

"Brief" is a very common concept with numerous synonyms in English, all conveying a sense of conciseness or short duration. Crossword setters leverage this rich vocabulary to create diverse puzzles, allowing for different letter counts and nuances of meaning to fit various grid patterns.

Q: What's the subtle difference between "terse" and "succinct"?

Both words mean brief, but their connotations differ. "Terse" often implies an abrupt, almost blunt brevity, sometimes bordering on rude. "Succinct," on the other hand, suggests concise and clear expression without unnecessary words, often implying elegance and efficiency in communication. While both are short, terse might be short and unfriendly, while succinct is short and effective.

Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "brief crossword clue" in your puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you quickly complete your grid.

Solutions for "brief crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

CURT: Abrupt and brief in speech or manner.

5 Letters

SHORT: Not long; lasting a small amount of time; concise.

TERSE: Sparing in the use of words; abrupt.

PITHY: Concise and forcefully expressive.

7 Letters

CONCISE: Giving a lot of information clearly and in a few words; brief but comprehensive.

8 Letters

SUCCINCT: Briefly and clearly expressed; concise.

More About "brief crossword clue"

The clue "brief" is a classic in crosswords, often appearing as a direct synonym for words meaning short, concise, or to the point. Its popularity stems from the rich array of English words that convey this concept, offering setters many options across different letter lengths. Understanding the various nuances of "brief" can significantly aid your puzzling.

When you encounter "brief" in a crossword, consider not just the length but also the tone. Is it a brief statement (TERSE, CURT), a brief summary (SUCCINCT, CONCISE), or simply something that's not long (SHORT)? The context of the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme might offer subtle hints to guide you to the precise synonym needed.

This type of clue tests your vocabulary and your ability to differentiate between closely related synonyms. Mastering words like CURT, TERSE, PITHY, CONCISE, and SUCCINCT will make you a more formidable crossword solver, especially for clues centered around communication and expression.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of boxes provided for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for words like "brief" that have many synonyms.
Think of Synonyms & Antonyms: For common descriptive words, brainstorm as many synonyms as you can, and sometimes even their antonyms (e.g., long for brief) if the clue might be inverted.
Context is Key: Look at the other words in the clue. Does it hint at a person's speech (e.g., "brief reply")? Or a document (e.g., "brief report")? This can help you distinguish between synonyms like TERSE (often related to speech) and CONCISE (often related to writing).
Check for Homonyms/Puns: While "brief" itself is straightforward, always be wary of clues that might be puns or play on words. Sometimes, a "brief" might refer to underwear or a legal document.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I identify synonyms for "brief" in crosswords?

Look for clues indicating brevity, conciseness, or a lack of detail, such as "to the point," "compact," "short and sweet," or phrases implying limited duration. Contextual clues are key.

Why are there so many answers for a "brief" clue?

\"Brief\" is a very common concept with numerous synonyms in English, all conveying a sense of conciseness or short duration. Crossword setters leverage this rich vocabulary to create diverse puzzles, allowing for different letter counts and nuances of meaning to fit various grid patterns.

What's the subtle difference between "terse" and "succinct"?

Both words mean brief, but their connotations differ. \"Terse\" often implies an abrupt, almost blunt brevity, sometimes bordering on rude. \"Succinct,\" on the other hand, suggests concise and clear expression without unnecessary words, often implying elegance and efficiency in communication. While both are short, terse might be short and unfriendly, while succinct is short and effective.