was short

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was short" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that had a brief duration or limited length in the past. Example: "The meeting was short, lasting only fifteen minutes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

My wind was short.

The New York Times

His hair was short.

The New Yorker

The respite was short.

The New York Times

Everything was short.

The Economist

"And time was short.

The New Yorker

Time was short.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

It was short-lived.

The New York Times - Sports

Optimism was short-lived.

Independent

I was short-waisted.

The New York Times

It was short-term.

Independent

The campaign was short-lived.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was short" to describe time, consider whether "brief" or "concise" might be more appropriate to emphasize efficiency or lack of detail.

Common error

Avoid using "was short" with abstract nouns where "lacking" or "deficient" would be more precise. For example, instead of "His temper was short", consider "He was lacking patience".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was short" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject to a descriptive adjective, indicating a state of being. It is used to describe a temporary or past condition of limited duration or size, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "was short" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate that something had a brief duration, limited length, or was deficient in some way. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread applicability. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts. For alternative expressions, consider using phrases like "was brief", or "was concise" to emphasize brevity, and ensure proper context when describing abstract concepts. Overall, understanding the nuances of "was short" ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was brief

Emphasizes conciseness and lack of detail.

was concise

Highlights the absence of unnecessary information.

was limited

Stresses restriction in quantity or duration.

was fleeting

Focuses on the transient nature and quick disappearance.

was curtailed

Suggests an abrupt ending or reduction.

was abbreviated

Indicates a shortened form or version.

was compact

Implies smallness and efficiency in terms of space or time.

was undersized

Specifically refers to being below the average or expected size.

was stunted

Suggests incomplete or inhibited growth.

was momentary

Emphasizes a very short duration, lasting only a moment.

FAQs

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

The phrase "was short" can describe something of limited duration, like "The meeting "was short"", or limited height, such as "He "was short" for his age".

What are some alternatives to using "was short"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "was brief", "was concise" (for time), or "was small" or "was petite" (for size).

When is it better to use "brief" instead of "short"?

While both describe limited duration, "brief" often emphasizes conciseness and efficiency, whereas "short" simply indicates a limited length of time. For example, a "brief meeting" is not only short but also efficient.

Is it correct to say "I was short on money"?

Yes, "I was short on money" is a common and acceptable way to say you didn't have enough money. Other options include "I "lacked funds"" or "I was short of cash".