is short

USAGE SUMMARY

"is short" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You could use it to describe a certain length or duration, such as "The car ride is short compared to a train ride."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

(History, admittedly, is short.

The New Yorker

Time is short.

The New York Times

Attention span is short.

The New York Times - Sports

The menu is short.

Independent

His fuse is short.

The New York Times

The list is short.

The New York Times - Arts

Political life is short.

Independent

His time is short.

The New York Times

But time is short.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

This is short-sighted.

The Economist

There is short-term allure.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is short" to describe time, ensure the context clarifies whether you mean a brief duration or a lack of time overall. For example, specify "the meeting is short" or "time is short" to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "is short" when you actually mean "is lacking". For instance, instead of saying "he is short patience", say "he lacks patience" or "he is short on patience".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is short" functions primarily as a descriptive phrase, often acting as a predicate adjective that modifies a noun or pronoun. It describes a state of being in terms of length, duration, or quantity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

13%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is short" is a versatile expression primarily used to describe limited length, duration, or quantity. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. It commonly appears in news articles, wikis, and scientific publications, indicating a neutral register. When using "is short", it's essential to provide context to avoid ambiguity, specifying whether you're referring to time, length, or another measurable aspect. While alternatives like "is brief" or "is concise" exist, they carry slightly different nuances. Remember to avoid using "is short" when "lacks" is more appropriate. In summary, "is short" is a reliable and frequently used phrase when employed with precision and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is brief

Focuses on the limited duration or length.

is concise

Emphasizes brevity and lack of unnecessary detail.

is succinct

Highlights the quality of being expressed briefly and clearly.

is limited

Highlights the restricted availability or extent.

doesn't last long

Focuses on the temporary existence of something.

is fleeting

Stresses the transient nature or quick passage.

is not extensive

Indicates a lack of broadness or thoroughness.

is curtailed

Implies a reduction or shortening of something.

is truncated

Emphasizes that something has been cut short or had its end removed.

is abbreviated

Specifically refers to something being made shorter, often in written form.

FAQs

How can I use "is short" in a sentence?

You can use "is short" to describe something that has a small length, duration, or height. Examples include "The movie "is short"" or "The building "is short" compared to the others".

What can I say instead of "is short"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "is brief", "is concise", or "is limited".

Which is correct, "is short of" or "is short in"?

"Is short of" is the more common and generally preferred phrasing. For example, "He "is short of" money" is more idiomatic than "He is short in money".

What's the difference between "is short" and "lacks"?

"Is short" often implies a deficiency or a limited quantity, whereas "lacks" simply means 'does not have'. You might say "Time "is short" before the deadline" or "He lacks experience in this field".