a brief encounter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a brief encounter" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a short or fleeting meeting or interaction between people. Example: "During my travels, I had a brief encounter with an old friend at the airport."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

A brief encounter.

Independent

Even a brief encounter wasn't brief enough.

The New York Times

There is a breakup, a brief encounter, an awkward rejection.

The New York Times

"It was a brush, a brief encounter," he said.

The New York Times

And who wouldn't love a PAIR OF EARRINGS or a BRIEF ENCOUNTER?

The New York Times

REPORTER AT LARGE about a brief encounter with a junkman named O'Shaughnessy.

The New Yorker

In fact, "A Brief Encounter with the Enemy" could even take place before "Paranoia".

The New Yorker

The conversation sounds like a brief encounter in a David Mamet film: "What do you want?

The New York Times - Arts

Brokeback Mountain (2005) Two cowboys and a brief encounter spun out over years.

The Guardian - Film

It was a brief encounter, but one that has stayed with me to this day".

The Guardian - Arts

A brief encounter in a Manhattan hotel on 14 May eventually shook us all.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In professional contexts, use "a brief encounter" to downplay the significance of a meeting when necessary.

Common error

While "a brief encounter" is widely understood, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Opt for simpler phrases like "a quick hello" or "a short chat" in informal communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a brief encounter" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a short, often unplanned meeting or interaction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

22%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a brief encounter" is a commonly used noun phrase describing a short or fleeting meeting. It is grammatically correct and versatile, fitting well in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While suitable for formal and informal use, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual settings. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage, supported by numerous real-world examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fleeting meeting

Focuses on the short duration of the meeting.

a short meeting

Emphasizes the concise nature of the gathering.

a chance meeting

Highlights the unplanned aspect of the encounter.

a passing interaction

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the interaction.

a quick exchange

Suggests a rapid and brief communication.

a momentary connection

Focuses on the brief period of connection established.

a casual brush

Implies a light and informal meeting.

a swift encounter

Highlights the speed of the interaction.

a transient interaction

Stresses the temporary quality of the meeting.

a hasty meeting

Suggests the meeting was rushed and unplanned.

FAQs

How can I use "a brief encounter" in a sentence?

You can use "a brief encounter" to describe a short or fleeting meeting, like "My trip included "a brief encounter" with a celebrity at the airport".

What's a more casual alternative to "a brief encounter"?

For less formal situations, you might use phrases such as "a quick chat", "a short meeting", or "a fleeting glimpse".

What does "a brief encounter" emphasize?

"A brief encounter" emphasizes the shortness and often the unexpected nature of a meeting or interaction between people.

Is "a brief encounter" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a brief encounter" is suitable for formal writing, providing a succinct way to describe short, often unplanned meetings in reports, articles, or narratives.