pithy utterance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pithy utterance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief and meaningful statement or remark that conveys a lot of information or insight in a few words. Example: "Her speech was filled with pithy utterances that left the audience reflecting on their own lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

For all her verbal prowess, for all her prolific output, Ms. Rich retained a dexterous command of the plain, pithy utterance.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Pithy, pungent and often profane, Koch's utterances caused merriment: they also made him enemies.

The Guardian

But look beyond the leering blokery of all his utterances on Back in Black and you find taut, pithy, rigorous works whose sense of mischief is (usually) evident.

The Guardian - Music

The two brothers, one a genius and the other a simpleton, generate in their streams of utterance a kindred prose, hectic and shambling and given to splashes of Biblical echo and pithy colloquialisms like "skip" (trash container), "ute" (utility vehicle), "skint" (broke), "dunny" (toilet), and "batty" (bottom).

The New Yorker

So pithy.

The New Yorker

An utterance".

The New Yorker

Texts are pithy.

The New York Times

Not obviously true, but pithy.

The Economist

It will be pithy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Funny good, pithy good.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

POTUS thinks pithy means "dirty".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pithy utterance" when you want to emphasize the conciseness and meaningfulness of a statement. It is suitable for formal writing where brevity and impact are valued.

Common error

While "pithy utterance" is a valid phrase, it may sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. Consider using simpler alternatives like "brief comment" or "short remark" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pithy utterance" functions as a noun phrase, where "pithy" modifies the noun "utterance". It is used to describe a specific type of statement characterized by its conciseness and meaningfulness. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pithy utterance" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a brief yet meaningful statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for written English. While not frequently used, it appears primarily in news and media, as well as academic contexts, suggesting a neutral to slightly formal register. When brevity and impact are desired, "pithy utterance" is a precise choice; however, simpler alternatives may be more appropriate for informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

concise statement

Emphasizes brevity and directness in the statement.

brief remark

Highlights the succinct nature of the comment.

succinct expression

Focuses on the compactness and clarity of the communication.

terse comment

Suggests a short and possibly abrupt statement.

pointed remark

Highlights the direct and purposeful nature of the utterance.

compact phrasing

Focuses on how efficiently the idea is expressed.

short declaration

Emphasizes the brevity and assertiveness of the statement.

incisive observation

Highlights the penetrating and clear-sighted quality of the remark.

epigrammatic saying

Refers to a brief, interesting, memorable, and sometimes surprising or satirical statement.

laconic statement

Suggests a statement that uses very few words.

FAQs

How can I use "pithy utterance" in a sentence?

You can use "pithy utterance" to describe a statement that is both brief and full of meaning. For example: "The speaker's address was memorable for its pithy utterances."

What are some alternatives to "pithy utterance"?

Alternatives to "pithy utterance" include "concise statement", "brief remark", or "succinct expression", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "pithy utterance" and "verbose explanation"?

"Pithy utterance" refers to a brief and meaningful statement, while "verbose explanation" describes a lengthy and often overly detailed explanation. They are contrasting styles of communication.

Is "pithy utterance" appropriate for academic writing?

Yes, "pithy utterance" is appropriate for academic writing, particularly when describing impactful or concise statements made by others. It adds a level of sophistication and precision to your analysis.