better be brief

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better be brief" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when advising someone to keep their communication short and to the point, often in a context where time is limited or brevity is preferred. Example: "In this meeting, we have a lot to cover, so you better be brief with your updates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The stop at the store was quick because Ms. Dennison had warned us upon entering, "There is a very real danger that I will start to shop, so we'd better be brief".

The New York Times - Arts

"At the Creative Arts, they don't give you very much time to give the speech and my award was way, way into the ceremony, so I was sitting there going, 'Oh my gosh, if I do happen to win, I better be brief.' People were running down the aisles to get up on the stage to say their speech.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Better are brief animated videos made from sequences of drawings.

The New York Times

The exceptions arrive late in the game, and I'm not about to spoil them for you, save for saying they're better for being brief.

Vice

I'll be brief.

TechCrunch

Be brief.

Science Magazine

Be brief but detailed.

WikiHow

Be brief but be pleasant.

WikiHow

The letter may be brief.

WikiHow

I shall be brief.

EU Parlament

Sehorn has been working out as the nickel back, and he said Wednesday that when his right knee feels better -- sometimes, there is brief and jarring pain -- he will return to right cornerback.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "better be brief" in presentations or meetings, set a clear time limit beforehand to manage expectations and ensure conciseness.

Common error

Avoid using "better be brief" repeatedly in close succession, as it can sound impatient or rude. Instead, vary your language to encourage conciseness while maintaining a polite tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better be brief" functions primarily as an imperative, urging someone to be concise. As indicated by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. The examples show its use in contexts where time is limited or brevity is preferred.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "better be brief" is a grammatically sound and usable expression to urge someone to be concise, primarily when time is limited. While Ludwig confirms its correctness, its informal tone makes it more suitable for casual settings. If you're aiming for a more formal or polite instruction, consider alternatives like "please be concise" or "brevity is appreciated". Remember, as with any directive phrase, context matters to prevent unintended negative interpretations. Although the term is deemed correct and usable, keep in mind other options exist and can be considered!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

should keep it short

Advises keeping the message or communication brief.

should be concise

Emphasizes conciseness as a requirement or recommendation.

must be to the point

Highlights the necessity of directness and relevance.

should get to the point

Advises immediately addressing the key issue.

ought to be succinct

Suggests a need for brevity and clarity in expression.

need to be terse

Indicates a requirement for a short and effective communication.

need to be economical with words

Highlights the importance of using the fewest words possible.

have to be quick

Stresses the importance of speed and brevity due to time constraints.

should avoid long-windedness

Advises against being verbose or rambling.

must make it snappy

Emphasizes making the communication quick and lively.

FAQs

How can I use "better be brief" in a sentence?

You can use "better be brief" to advise someone to keep their communication short and to the point, especially when time is limited. For example: "We have a lot to cover in this meeting, so you "better be brief"."

What can I say instead of "better be brief"?

Alternatives include "should keep it short", "ought to be concise", or "must be to the point" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "better be brief" in formal communication?

While "better be brief" is grammatically correct, it can sound somewhat informal or even demanding. In formal settings, consider using more polite alternatives such as "please be concise" or "brevity is appreciated".

What's the difference between "better be brief" and "be brief"?

"Be brief" is a direct command or instruction. "Better be brief" adds a sense of urgency or implied consequence if the instruction is not followed, suggesting it's in the person's best interest to be concise.