curt

USAGE SUMMARY

'curt' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is abruptly or brusquely short and to the point, usually in a way that is perceived as impolite or rude. For example, you could say, "The customer service representative was quite curt in his response to my inquiry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

For me, it was while trying to pre-board an overcrowded flight to Miami with a noisy baby in my arms, only to be ordered back in line by a curt agent.

The Economist

The player retaliated moderately, which brought the following curt but unfortunate rebuke from our then manager, Gordon Milne: "If somebody in the crowd spits at you, you've just got to swallow it".

The Guardian - Sport

Rather she was spiky, curt, blunt, ruthless.

The Guardian - Sport

Their tacit support was a turnaround from the curt dismissal of the idea by the head of the drafting committee, Prasong Soonsiri, a retired spymaster.

The Economist

After a curt reception of a delegation led by Margaret Wallstrom, the European environment commissioner, this week, Ms Whitman issued a curious statement that captures the Kafkaesque quality of current American thinking.

The Economist

If it is not, it is undermining what some consider its most important policy, and may be breaking the law to boot.Acting like a guilty schoolboy, the education ministry issued a curt, 33-word statement saying it was suspending examinations of teachers.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

The most eye-catching gesture was the release of Ibrahim Rugova, the Kosovar Albanians' moderate leader, who has been under Serb "protection" in recent weeks, to talk peace in Rome.Yet another diplomatic initiative is being jointly pursued by some American legislators, including a Republican arms-control expert, Curt Weldon, and members of the Russian parliament.

The Economist

It did the same for a snowstorm in upstate New York and flooding that occurred in August—in Alaska.Another potential congressional scandal brewed as Curt Weldon, a Republican who is in a tight election race in his suburban Philadelphia district, confirmed that the Justice Department was investigating his connection to lobbying contracts through his daughter's firm.

The Economist

Curt Schilling, an outspoken former player for the Red Sox, has expressed interest.

The Economist

Among the other options on the 2013 ballot were Mike Piazza, the best-hitting catcher in baseball history; Curt Schilling, an elite pitcher who was especially effective in the playoffs that determine the league champion; Craig Biggio, a speedy, consistent second baseman; and Jeff Bagwell, Mr Biggio's powerful teammate.

The Economist

Curt Weldon, a Republican congressman who has championed the need for anti-missile defences, believes the Shahab-3 may already be operational.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "curt", be mindful of the potential negative connotation. It's best suited for situations where brevity is necessary, but consider alternatives like "concise" or "brief" if you want to avoid sounding rude.

Common error

Avoid using "curt" when you intend to convey directness without implying rudeness. While both words describe straightforward communication, "curt" often suggests a dismissive or impolite tone. Use "direct" or "forthright" instead to maintain a respectful and clear communication style.

Linguistic Context

The word "curt" primarily functions as an adjective. It modifies nouns to describe something characterized by its brevity, often implying rudeness or unfriendliness. As Ludwig AI states, it is a correct and usable word. The provided examples illustrate its use in describing responses, dismissals, and statements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Encyclopedias

19%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "curt" is an adjective used to describe something that is brief and often rudely so. Ludwig AI confirms that "curt" is a correct and usable term. Its usage spans across various contexts, including News & Media, encyclopedias, and science. While it conveys brevity, it often implies a lack of warmth or even rudeness, making it crucial to consider the intended tone. Synonyms include "abrupt", "brusque", and "terse", each with slightly different nuances. When aiming for directness without being impolite, consider using alternative like "direct" or "concise". Being mindful of this potential negative connotation can improve communication effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

abrupt

Implies a sudden and unexpected brevity, often startling.

brusque

Suggests a rough and unceremonious manner of speaking.

terse

Indicates a concise and sometimes unfriendly brevity.

blunt

Highlights a direct and sometimes tactless manner of expression.

short

Emphasizes a lack of elaboration or detail.

concise

Focuses on expressing much in few words, more positive connotation.

laconic

Implies using very few words, often out of habit or stoicism.

succinct

Suggests a clear and brief style, valued for its efficiency.

summary

Presents the main points briefly, omitting details.

pithy

Conveys meaning effectively through brief and forceful expressions.

FAQs

How can I use "curt" in a sentence?

You can use "curt" to describe a reply, a tone, or a manner that is rudely brief or abrupt. For example, "He gave a "curt reply"" or "Her "curt tone" made it clear she was not interested in continuing the conversation".

What words are similar to "curt"?

Synonyms for "curt" include "abrupt", "brusque", "terse", and "blunt". These words all describe a manner that is brief and to the point, but often with a negative or impolite connotation.

Is it always negative to be "curt"?

While "curt" often carries a negative connotation, there may be situations where brevity is necessary and expected. However, it is important to be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation and to use alternatives if you want to ensure your communication is perceived as polite and respectful.

What's the difference between "curt" and "concise"?

"Curt" and "concise" both describe brevity, but "concise" emphasizes efficiency and clarity, while "curt" implies abruptness and potential rudeness. A "concise summary" is appreciated for its clarity, whereas a "curt response" might be seen as dismissive.