brief list

USAGE SUMMARY

"brief list" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used in an instruction or description to refer to a list that is concise and to the point. For example: "Please provide me with a brief list of job skills that apply to the position you are applying for."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Here is a brief list.

University of California, Berkeley

A brief list makes the point clearly.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Instead, there's a brief list, and a firm hand.

The New Yorker

A brief list: Facebook made changes to its gaming platform that hampered Zynga regulars.

The New York Times

This brief list chooses one song from every year of the decade.

The New Yorker

Android's brief list (emails, "interactions" on Twitter) means you can't triage what to do so well.

The Guardian - Tech

A brief list of the "known unknowns" suggests Donald Trump's presidency will not survive 12 months.

The Guardian - Opinion

Later in the day, his aide, Mr. Del Cecato, provided a brief list of revenue sources.

The New York Times

I could taste its splendor in the fantastic fior di latte gelato on Franny's brief list of desserts.

The New York Times - Food

Then, as a class, generate a brief list of words generally associated with conflict (discord, dissension, divisiveness, disagreement, argument, etc).

The New York Times

Thus, I will "roll" with the "punches" and provide a brief list of sports I invented this past Thanksgiving week.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "brief list" when you want to present information in a concise and easily digestible format. It's suitable for introductions, summaries, or when the reader needs only the most important points.

Common error

Avoid using "brief list" when the context requires a more detailed or comprehensive explanation. Ensure that the brevity of the list doesn't sacrifice essential information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brief list" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as an appositive or in conjunction with a verb like 'provide', 'present', or 'include'. As Ludwig AI indicates, it serves to introduce or refer to a concise collection of items or points. The examples across different sources demonstrate its consistent use in this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

23%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "brief list" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that introduces a concise collection of items. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It serves to inform the audience of the brevity and focus of the presented information. Examples from reputable sources like The New York Times, The New Yorker, and Forbes demonstrate its wide applicability across various domains, particularly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the brevity doesn't sacrifice essential details. Alternatives include "short list", "key points", and "essential items", each providing a slight nuance to suit the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

short list

Interchangeable with "brief list", placing a slightly stronger emphasis on the small number of items.

concise inventory

Replaces "list" with "inventory", suggesting a more formal and organized collection.

capsule summary

Conveys a highly condensed and easily digestible overview.

summary enumeration

Uses more formal language, emphasizing the act of counting or specifying items in a condensed manner.

selective catalog

Implies a carefully chosen collection, highlighting a choice made amongst the entire collection available.

abridged compendium

Implies a collection of information that has been shortened or condensed.

essential items

Focuses on the importance of the included items, rather than just their brevity.

key points

Highlights the most important aspects, rather than providing a comprehensive list.

outline

Suggests a skeletal structure or framework, providing a basic overview.

highlights

Emphasizes the most interesting or noteworthy parts of a larger collection.

FAQs

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

You can introduce a set of concise points or items by saying, "Here's a "brief list" of the key features," or "The report includes a "brief list" of recommendations."

What are some alternatives to using "brief list"?

Consider using alternatives like "short list", "key points", or "essential items" depending on the context and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "brief list" instead of "detailed list"?

"Brief list" is suitable when you only need to provide the most essential or important items, while a "detailed list" is necessary when comprehensive information is required. It depends on the level of specificity your audience needs.

How do I ensure my "brief list" is effective?

Prioritize the most relevant and impactful items for your audience. Ensure each item is clearly and concisely stated. Avoid including unnecessary details that could detract from the overall message.