shorten points

USAGE SUMMARY

'shorten points' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe when a particular point or argument is made more concise or summarized in a shorter form. For example: "The speaker managed to shorten his points and deliver a more concise argument that made a greater impact on the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Shorten points to a $7.7m redirection of funds from the national respite for carers program.

The Guardian

He started to shorten points, to limit the strain on his hip.

The New Yorker

In part, this is a strategy he has employed to shorten points and reduce wear and tear on his knees.

The New York Times

And it could shorten points and conserve energy, especially in the best-of-five-set format of Grand Slams.

The New York Times

He will also have to get to the net frequently and shorten points (as he did with Tsonga the other night).

The New York Times

For half a decade, a chorus of voices, on retainer and off, has urged Murray to play more assertively, shorten points and conserve energy.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Shorten pointed to the 16-point drop in Turnbull's net satisfaction rating, suggesting voters were responding to Labor raising questions about Turnbull's judgment in the Brough issue.

The Guardian

In broader observations about the state of national debate, Shorten pointed out that claims about a lack of political consensus were nothing new, but warned that "debilitating cynicism" and apathy were "more difficult opponents for us than even Tony Abbott".

The Guardian

As they've aged, both men have taken to shortening points.

The New Yorker

Kafelnikov mixed up the pace to throw off Kuerten's spring-loaded backhand, and he shortened points by coming into the net.

The New York Times - Sports

A more proactive Federer, conscious of expanding his own comfort zones, shortening points by mixing in the occasional serve and volley, attacking second serves, and using his short-slice backhand and his latest weapon, a drop shot, are the keys to his success in the present and the future.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing tennis strategy, use "shorten points" to describe a player's effort to win quickly, often by approaching the net or hitting aggressively.

Common error

Avoid using "shorten points" in contexts where reducing physical distances is implied. This phrase is typically reserved for abstract reductions, such as arguments or durations, not spatial measurements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shorten points" functions as a verb phrase where "shorten" acts as the verb, meaning to reduce in length or duration, and "points" serves as the direct object. It describes the action of making something (like arguments or rallies) briefer. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Sports

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "shorten points" is a common and grammatically correct expression, particularly in sports, news, and academic contexts. It means to reduce the length or duration of arguments, rallies, or discussions. According to Ludwig AI, it is a usable phrase. The usage examples show that players "shorten points" in tennis by being aggressive and quickly winning. In discussions and presentations, it refers to making arguments concise and emphasizing key aspects. When used properly, this strategy helps conserve energy and ensure clarity and efficiency. Related phrases include "reduce rallies", "expedite exchanges", and "make points briefer". A common mistake is to use "shorten points" in physical distance contexts, which is inappropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limit point duration

Specifically refers to restricting the time or length of a point in a game or discussion.

reduce rallies

Focuses specifically on reducing the length of rallies, especially in sports contexts.

make points briefer

Focuses on making individual arguments or statements more concise.

cut short the exchanges

Emphasizes abruptly ending exchanges or arguments.

condense arguments

Implies reducing the volume or length of arguments through summarization.

expedite exchanges

Implies speeding up the process of exchanges, often in discussions or negotiations.

abbreviate the discussion

Suggests making the discussion shorter by omitting certain details.

accelerate the scoring

Refers to speeding up the process of gaining points in a game or competition.

truncate the argument

Implies cutting off an argument before it reaches its natural conclusion.

streamline discussions

Focuses on making discussions more efficient and to the point.

FAQs

How does a tennis player "shorten points"?

In tennis, a player might "shorten points" by adopting an aggressive net game, serving and volleying, or using powerful groundstrokes to force errors and win quickly. This strategy minimizes long rallies and conserves energy.

What does it mean to "shorten the points" in a discussion?

To "shorten the points" in a discussion means to make your arguments more concise and direct, avoiding unnecessary details or tangents to ensure clarity and efficiency.

When is it appropriate to try and "shorten points" in a debate?

It's appropriate to "shorten points" in a debate when time is limited, when you need to emphasize key arguments, or when your opponent is trying to confuse the issue with excessive details. This helps maintain focus on the most important aspects.

What are some strategies to "shorten points" in a presentation?

To effectively "shorten points" in a presentation, use bullet points, summarize key takeaways frequently, and avoid delving into overly complex explanations. Prioritize clear and concise communication.