Short period

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "short period" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a brief duration of time. For example, "The project will be completed in a short period." Alternative expressions include "brief period" and "limited time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

After a short period with Messrs.

Nature

For a short period of time, Kevin was living there.

Huffington Post

"For a short period, maybe it is O.K.

The New York Times

"Michael was extraordinary in a short period of time.

Los Angeles Times

A very short period.

The New York Times

They're a short period away".

The New York Times

After a short period, both infants died.

The New York Times

You'll need a short period of detox.

The New York Times

After a short period, they left.

The New York Times

"I wasn't a governor for a short period of time.

The New York Times

"We've got a very short period of time".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "short period", ensure the context clearly defines the boundaries of that period. For example, specify if it's a "short period of time" in history, a project, or a personal experience.

Common error

Avoid using "short period" without providing any relative context. Without context, the phrase is vague. Be sure to offer some frame of reference to what makes the period "short".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "short period" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It describes the duration of something, indicating it is of limited length. Ludwig examples show it modifying words like "time", "efficiency", and "detox". It serves to specify the temporal aspect of the noun it modifies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

27%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "short period" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to describe a brief duration of time. According to Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news and media, science, and academic contexts. When writing, it's best to provide context to what you are describing and remember to not be redundant (i.e., "short period" rather than "short period of time"). Consider using alternatives like "brief duration" or "limited time" depending on your specific nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Brief duration

Emphasizes the limited length of time.

Short spell

Similar to 'quick spell', indicating a temporary period.

Limited time

Focuses on the constraint of available time.

Brief interval

Refers to a short space between events.

Relatively brief time

Adds emphasis to the brevity of the time compared to something else.

Quick spell

Suggests a temporary and often sudden occurrence.

Small window

Suggests a limited opportunity within a timeframe.

Fleeting moment

Highlights the transient nature of the time.

Passing phase

Implies a stage that will soon end.

Momentary lapse

Indicates a brief break or interruption.

FAQs

How can I use "short period" in a sentence?

You can use "short period" to describe a brief duration of time, as in "The medication is effective, but only for a "short period"" or "He lived in Italy for a "short period" of time".

What are some alternatives to "short period"?

Some alternatives to "short period" include "brief duration", "limited time", or "fleeting moment", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "short period of time"?

While "short period of time" is more descriptive, the word "period" already implies time, so using just ""short period"" is often sufficient and more concise.

How does the formality of "short period" compare to other similar phrases?

"Short period" is generally considered neutral in formality. Phrases like "brief interval" may sound slightly more formal, while expressions like "quick spell" are more informal.