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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
i'll keep it short
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesAlternative expressions(3)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
7 human-written examples
I'll keep it short.
News & Media
I'll keep it short, though how can one shorten a story that's already lasted more than forty years?
News & Media
This has already been dissected at length, so I'll keep it short, but while Myers is a No. 3 starter at best in terms of talent, he threw 439 innings over the past two years for Houston and that has a lot of value, particularly in keeping the bullpen fresh.
News & Media
Okay, I don't even know where to start here, so I'll keep it short and sweet.
News & Media
Much has been written about this, so I'll keep it short: Make sure your attitude and appearance project self-confidence, professionalism, and eager interest.
Science & Research
I have the tendency to go off for a while about this, so I'll keep it short and sweet: Van Hanos, Joshua Abelow and Brian Belott.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
53 human-written examples
"I will keep it short," he told the crowd.
News & Media
Although I could have listed 20 or even 100 tips, I will keep it short at 5.
News & Media
Let's back up (we'll keep it short): In the Popol Vuh, the Mayan creation narrative, twins play a ballgame.
News & Media
Not Cool – Wonderful Beasts (From MySpace) We've mentioned this Downham trio before so we'll keep it short and to the point – much like their punchy alt-rock: "Oh my God.
News & Media
So we'll keep it short and sweet and move on to the recipes.
Science & Research
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "i'll keep it short", ensure that your subsequent remarks are indeed concise. Over-promising and under-delivering can undermine your credibility.
Common error
Avoid using "i'll keep it short" as a mere filler or introductory remark if you don't intend to be brief. If your explanation extends beyond a few sentences, the phrase loses its meaning and can irritate your audience.
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "i'll keep it short" functions as an introductory statement, signaling the speaker's intention to be brief and concise. It sets an expectation for brevity, as shown in several Ludwig examples where the speaker follows with a short explanation.
Frequent in
News & Media
57%
Science
29%
Wiki
14%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "i'll keep it short" is a common introductory remark used to assure an audience of brevity. Grammatically correct and most frequently found in News & Media, this phrase sets the expectation for a concise explanation. While acceptable in many contexts, overuse without delivering on the promise of brevity can diminish its effectiveness. Ludwig examples shows consistent use in various publications, confirming its place in contemporary English.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
i'll be brief
Focuses on being concise, substituting "keep it short" with a direct statement of brevity.
i'll keep it concise
Similar to the original, but uses the adjective "concise" instead of "short".
i'll make it quick
Emphasizes speed and efficiency, suggesting a rapid delivery of information.
i'll get straight to the point
Highlights directness and avoidance of unnecessary details.
i'll try to be brief
Adds a note of uncertainty or aspiration to brevity.
i'll cut to the chase
Implies the removal of introductory or less important information.
i'll be succinct
Focuses on expressing something clearly in few words.
let me be concise
Indicates an intention to use few words to express something.
to be brief
Directly states the intention of being brief from the outset.
in brief
A short, direct way to signal a summary or concise explanation.
FAQs
What does "i'll keep it short" mean?
The phrase "i'll keep it short" is used to indicate that the speaker intends to be brief or concise in their explanation or remarks. It's a way of assuring the listener that the speaker will not take up too much time.
What can I say instead of "i'll keep it short"?
You can use alternatives like "i'll be brief", "i'll make it quick", or "i'll get straight to the point" depending on the context.
Is it appropriate to use "i'll keep it short" in formal writing?
While "i'll keep it short" is generally acceptable, it's more suited for informal or semi-formal contexts. In formal writing, consider using more professional alternatives such as "in the interest of brevity" or "to be concise".
How can I effectively use "i'll keep it short" in a presentation?
When starting a presentation, using "i'll keep it short" can set a positive tone by assuring the audience that you value their time. However, ensure that your presentation is indeed concise and focused to maintain credibility.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
86%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested