a terse introduction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a terse introduction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an introduction that is brief and to the point, often lacking in detail or elaboration. Example: "The report began with a terse introduction that outlined the main findings without unnecessary elaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

In a terse introduction to the proposed regulations, the executive says the "industry could and should do better" on safety and that operators will have a new duty to make sure this is done.

The Guardian

A terse introduction describes the earlier chronological ordering and explains that the new edition is "partly a considered response to suggestions that what was needed, too, was a book that followed Larkin's own deliberate ordering of his poems in each successive book... with perhaps an appendix taking in earlier published strays and also a handful of poems after High Windows had gone to press".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The terse "Introduction" began with a primordial ooze formed from the first six notes of a 12-tone row.

The New York Times - Arts

In his terse introduction, Brunetti explains his simple criteria for selection: "These are comics that I savor and often revisit".

The New York Times - Books

[a] is a terse reference to the esoteric mode of presentation.

SEP

Mr. Gelman answered with a terse affirmation.

The New York Times

We hear a terse interchange.

The Guardian - Film

Not a terse word said.

The Guardian

The Taliban offered a terse explanation.

The New York Times

After a terse historical sketch, the book follows a pattern.

The Economist

In a terse reply, the department refused.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a terse introduction" when you want to immediately convey the core message without unnecessary details or background information. It's effective when the audience is already familiar with the topic or when brevity is essential.

Common error

Avoid using "terse" in casual conversations or informal writing. "Terse" carries a formal tone and can sometimes be perceived as rude or dismissive if not used appropriately. Opt for simpler words like "brief" or "short" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a terse introduction" functions as a noun phrase, where 'terse' modifies 'introduction'. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct. It describes the nature of the introduction, indicating that it is brief and concise.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a terse introduction" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an introduction that is brief and to the point. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While its frequency is relatively rare, it is commonly found in news and media and science, lending a neutral to formal tone. For alternative expressions, consider using phrases like ""a concise introduction"" or ""a brief overview"" to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a concise introduction

Focuses on brevity and clarity.

a brief overview

Emphasizes the summarization aspect of the introduction.

a succinct opening

Highlights the opening nature and its conciseness.

a short preface

Implies a formal, limited preliminary statement.

a compact preamble

Conveys efficiency and reduced form of introductory material.

a pithy lead-in

Stresses cleverness and conciseness in the introductory part.

an abbreviated foreword

Formal but shorter than a regular foreword.

a minimal prolegomenon

Highly formal and scholarly term for a brief introductory discussion.

a clipped opening

Emphasizes brevity and directness in the introduction.

a laconic start

Focuses on using very few words to begin.

FAQs

How can I use "a terse introduction" in a sentence?

You can use "a terse introduction" to describe something that is brief and concise, such as, "The report began with "a terse introduction" outlining the main findings".

What are some alternatives to "a terse introduction"?

Alternatives include "a concise introduction", "a brief overview", or "a succinct opening", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "terse"?

"Terse" is appropriate when you want to emphasize brevity and directness, often in formal or professional contexts. It suggests a lack of unnecessary words or elaboration.

What is the difference between "a terse introduction" and "a detailed introduction"?

"A terse introduction" is short and to the point, while "a detailed introduction" provides extensive background information and elaboration. The choice depends on the audience's needs and the purpose of the communication.