I will be brief

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I will be brief" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used when the speaker or writer wishes to convey that they plan to give a concise overview of a topic or idea. For example, you could write, "I will be brief, but I would like to explain my opinion on the new tax plan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

So I will be brief.

The New York Times - Books

Unlike them, I will be brief.

The New York Times

"I will be brief," he says after seven lines.

The New Yorker

First: "As your commencement speaker, I will be brief".

The New Yorker

"They have to turn this room over to the Rosenberg bar mitzvah in about 20 minutes, so I will be brief," Mr. Schlieff said.

The New York Times - Style

As this is impossible, I will be brief, starting with the risible Scottish fiasco, The Last Great Wilderness, an addled cross between two cult movies, also set in the wilder parts of Britain - The Wicker Man and Polanski's Cul-de-Sac.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But it will be brief.

The New York Times

Chances are it will be brief".

The New Yorker

As experiences go, it will be brief.

The New York Times - Arts

"We hope it will be brief, with a minimum of casualties on both sides," Mr. Chrétien said of the war.

The New York Times

"I don't have much time, so I'll be brief".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I will be brief" at the start of a speech or presentation to set expectations for the audience, signaling that you value their time and will focus on the essential information.

Common error

Don't equate brevity with a lack of thoroughness. While "I will be brief" promises conciseness, ensure that you still cover all the necessary points effectively. Prioritize clarity and impact over exhaustive detail.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I will be brief" serves as an introductory statement, signaling the speaker's intention to be concise. Ludwig AI's analysis shows that it's often used to set expectations before delivering a message, as seen in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I will be brief" is a grammatically sound and functional phrase employed to signal an intent to be concise, predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and utility. The phrase serves to manage audience expectations and demonstrate respect for their time. While its frequency is uncommon, its effectiveness in setting a tone of efficiency and clarity remains notable. Understanding its purpose and appropriate register ensures its strategic use in diverse communication settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Let me be brief

Adds a slightly more formal tone, giving permission to oneself.

I'll be concise

Highlights the use of few words to express oneself.

I'll be succinct

Stresses the quality of expressing much in a few words.

I'll be to the point

Highlights directness and relevance in communication.

I'll get straight to the point

Uses a more direct expression to convey the intention of avoiding unnecessary preamble.

I'll keep it short

Emphasizes the intention to minimize the duration of the communication.

I'll be quick

Focuses on the speed of delivery, rather than the amount of information.

To be brief

Introduces a shortened version of a longer explanation.

I'll cut to the chase

Indicates an intention to skip preliminary or irrelevant information.

In brief

Signifies that the following information will be a summary.

FAQs

How can I use "I will be brief" in a sentence?

You can use "I will be brief" to signal that you intend to be concise, such as, "I know your time is valuable, so "I will be brief" in my explanation."

What is a more formal alternative to "I will be brief"?

A more formal alternative would be "Allow me to be concise" or "I shall endeavor to be succinct".

Is it redundant to say "I will be brief" before giving a long speech?

Yes, it would be contradictory. Using "I will be brief" sets an expectation of conciseness. If you anticipate a lengthy discussion, it's best to avoid this phrase.

What does it mean when someone says "I will be brief"?

It means they intend to communicate their message in a concise and efficient manner, respecting the listener's time. Similar phrases are "I'll keep it short", or "I'll be concise".