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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
I'll keep it short
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesAlternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
7 human-written examples
I'll keep it short.
News & Media
I'll keep it short, though how can one shorten a story that's already lasted more than forty years?
News & Media
This has already been dissected at length, so I'll keep it short, but while Myers is a No. 3 starter at best in terms of talent, he threw 439 innings over the past two years for Houston and that has a lot of value, particularly in keeping the bullpen fresh.
News & Media
Okay, I don't even know where to start here, so I'll keep it short and sweet.
News & Media
Much has been written about this, so I'll keep it short: Make sure your attitude and appearance project self-confidence, professionalism, and eager interest.
Science & Research
I have the tendency to go off for a while about this, so I'll keep it short and sweet: Van Hanos, Joshua Abelow and Brian Belott.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
53 human-written examples
"I will keep it short," he told the crowd.
News & Media
Although I could have listed 20 or even 100 tips, I will keep it short at 5.
News & Media
Let's back up (we'll keep it short): In the Popol Vuh, the Mayan creation narrative, twins play a ballgame.
News & Media
Not Cool – Wonderful Beasts (From MySpace) We've mentioned this Downham trio before so we'll keep it short and to the point – much like their punchy alt-rock: "Oh my God.
News & Media
So we'll keep it short and sweet and move on to the recipes.
Science & Research
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "I'll keep it short" to signal to your audience that you are aware of their time and will be concise.
Common error
Avoid using "I'll keep it short" if you know you will be discussing a topic at length. It sets a false expectation and can frustrate your audience.
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "I'll keep it short" functions as an introductory remark, signaling the speaker's intention to be brief. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this commonly precedes opinions, stories, or explanations, setting an expectation of conciseness.
Frequent in
News & Media
70%
Wiki
10%
Science
5%
Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Reference
5%
Encyclopedias
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "I'll keep it short" is a common way to signal brevity and respect for the audience's time. Grammatically correct and generally neutral in register, it's suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media. However, as highlighted by Ludwig, it's essential to be mindful of setting false expectations; only use the phrase when a concise message is genuinely intended. Consider related phrases like "I'll be brief" or "I'll make it quick" for nuanced variations. Be aware of our guidelines and avoid overpromising brevity, and use Ludwig as your guide to explore and utilize this phrase effectively.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
I'll be brief
Focuses on brevity, similar to keeping it short.
I'll make it quick
Emphasizes speed and efficiency.
I'll get straight to the point
Highlights directness and conciseness.
Let me be concise
Focuses on delivering a brief message.
In short
Summarizes a longer statement or situation.
To be brief
Similar to 'in short', indicating brevity.
I'll keep this concise
Highlights maintaining conciseness in the following message.
I'll cut to the chase
Emphasizes getting to the most important point quickly.
Without further ado
Indicates a prompt start without delay.
I'll be succinct
Focuses on communicating briefly and clearly.
FAQs
What does "I'll keep it short" mean?
The phrase "I'll keep it short" is used to indicate that you intend to be brief and concise in your communication. It's a way of assuring your audience that you won't take up too much of their time.
How can I use "I'll keep it short" in a sentence?
You can use "I'll keep it short" at the beginning of a statement or speech to signal your intention to be brief. For example, "I'll keep it short, we need to focus on our goals."
What are some alternatives to "I'll keep it short"?
You can use alternatives like "I'll be brief", "I'll make it quick", or "I'll get straight to the point" depending on the context.
Is it better to say "I'll keep it short" or "I will keep it short"?
Both "I'll keep it short" and "I will keep it short" are grammatically correct, but "I'll keep it short" is more conversational and commonly used in informal settings. "I will keep it short" can be used for emphasis or in more formal situations.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested