a brief passage

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a brief passage" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a short excerpt or section of text, often in the context of literature, articles, or speeches. Example: "In her essay, she included a brief passage from Shakespeare to illustrate her point."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

What happens musically to make a brief passage have such an oversized emotional impact?

The New York Times - Arts

There was no such violence in a brief passage before the end.

The New Yorker

The closest Harris comes is complaining about feeling left out, in a brief passage contradicting nearly every­thing else he wrote.

The New York Times - Books

Occasionally, almost from nowhere, a brief passage of straightforward symphonic chords would emerge and then dissolve into the changeable fabric.

The New York Times - Arts

"The UK's most extensive indigenous high-technology industry is weaponry," states a brief passage on how the decline of British manufacturing has been overstated.

The Guardian - Books

In a brief passage, Koma's body demonstrates a series of minor spasms that coincide with drumbeats, while Eiko rises until her whole torso is erect above the water.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

The existence of a mythification of this brief passage of his life strikes me as an affront to him and to people who love his writing".

Los Angeles Times

Only in a few brief passages is it expressive: in a chorus for the Virtues made of fierce, upward waves; in a gleaming rise from Victory as war on the Devil is declared, and in another solo late in the piece, from Humility.

The New York Times - Arts

Time, that indifferent destroyer of all things mortal, seems to stay its scythe, to borrow a metaphor, for the brief passage of "Love Is My Sin, Peter Brookk's theatrical adaptation of select Shakespeare sonnets, at the Duke on 42nd Street.

The New York Times

Everything here is enjoyable; a few brief passages are first rate.

The New York Times - Arts

She reads a few brief passages to Mr. Zinsser, whose smiling grimace, as one former student has put it, can suggest fondness for a person whose writing is causing him pain.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a brief passage", ensure it's clear what text you're referencing. Provide context or citation for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a brief passage" without specifying its relevance or connection to your main argument. Always explain its significance.

Linguistic Context

A brief passage primarily functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific, short portion of a text or event. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. The examples show it used to highlight particular sections in books, speeches, or even musical compositions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a brief passage" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to refer to a short section of text, music, or time. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile and applicable across various contexts, from news and media to academic and scientific writing. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure you specify the passage you're referencing and its relevance to your overall point. Consider alternatives like "a short excerpt" or "a concise section" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a short excerpt

Focuses on the portion of the text being extracted or quoted.

a concise section

Highlights the succinctness and completeness of the part.

a small segment

Emphasizes the limited size of the selected portion.

a fleeting moment

Focuses on the brevity and transience of the occurrence.

a short interlude

Implies a temporary interruption or break.

a quick sequence

Highlights the rapid succession of events or actions.

a brief spell

Suggests a short duration of time or activity.

a passing remark

Emphasizes the incidental or casual nature of the statement.

a concise explanation

Implies a clear and succinct description.

a short segment

Emphasizes the limited size of the selected portion.

FAQs

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

You can use "a brief passage" to refer to a short excerpt from a text, like in the sentence, "The author quoted "a brief passage" to emphasize her point."

What are some alternatives to saying "a brief passage"?

Alternatives include "a short excerpt", "a concise section", or "a small segment", depending on the specific context and what you want to emphasize.

Is it correct to say "a brief passage"?

Yes, "a brief passage" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English to refer to a short section of text.

What's the difference between "a brief passage" and "a short excerpt"?

"A brief passage" and "a short excerpt" are very similar. "A brief passage" may slightly emphasize the flow or movement of the text, while "a short excerpt" focuses on the selection of a portion of the text.