a short note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a short note" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a brief written message or communication, often conveying important information or reminders. Example: "Please leave a short note on my desk to remind me about the meeting tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a short note.

The Washington Post

Two weeks later, Berman sent Gene a short note.

The New Yorker

Just a short note to wish you Happy Birthday.

The New Yorker

Includes a short note on the owner's day.

Cornell University

It's a short note, because generally the Lib Dems aren't a rebellious lot.

The Guardian

The court also released a short note he had left for his wife.

The New York Times

On 17 March, Goldsmith published a short note saying an invasion was lawful.

The Guardian

It can be a short note via e-mail or a letter.

The Washington Post

General Motors have sent us a short note explaining what "Surplus" is.

The New Yorker

The Institute for Fiscal Studies has put out a short note on possible tax reforms.

Independent

Toward the back a short note about spring in the forest of Fontainebleau.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a short note", ensure it's concise and clearly conveys the intended message. Avoid unnecessary details that could lengthen the note.

Common error

Avoid including excessive details in "a short note". A short note should be succinct and focus only on the essential information. If extensive information is necessary, consider using a longer format, such as a memo or email.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a short note" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig shows its uses across diverse contexts, indicating its versatility in written and spoken communication.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a short note" is a common and versatile noun phrase used to describe a brief written message. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically sound and widely accepted across various contexts. Its function is to convey concise information efficiently. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia, and Science, "a short note" maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. Related phrases include "a brief memo" and "a quick message". When using this phrase, ensure brevity and clarity, avoiding excessive details that would defeat its purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brief memo

Replaces 'note' with 'memo', suggesting a slightly more formal and business-oriented context.

a quick message

Substitutes 'short' with 'quick' and 'note' with 'message', emphasizing speed and informality.

a brief communication

Replaces 'note' with 'communication', making the phrase more formal and general.

a concise reminder

Emphasizes the function of the note as a memory aid, highlighting brevity.

a short memo

Uses 'memo' instead of 'note', implying a professional or internal business context.

a brief dispatch

Uses 'dispatch' instead of 'note', lending a sense of urgency or official communication.

a quick scrawl

Replaces 'note' with 'scrawl', focusing on the handwriting or hurried nature of the writing.

a brief entry

Implies a piece of writing that is part of a record or log and is short in length.

a small missive

Substitutes 'note' with 'missive', adding a touch of formality and old-fashioned charm.

a short dispatch

A slightly more formal alternative, implying a quickly sent message.

FAQs

What's the best way to start "a short note"?

Begin with a clear and concise subject or greeting to immediately convey the purpose. For example, if you're writing a thank you note, start with "Thank you for..."

What can I say instead of "a short note"?

You can use alternatives like "a brief memo", "a quick message", or "a concise reminder" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a short note" instead of an email?

"A short note" is suitable for quick reminders, thank you messages, or brief updates, whereas email is better for more detailed explanations or formal communication.

How long should "a short note" be?

Ideally, "a short note" should be no more than a few sentences. It should convey the essential information without unnecessary elaboration.