Briefly
/ˈbriːfli/
adverbBeginnerVery CommonGeneral
Meaning
Question
Definitions
1
In a short time or manner.
/ˈbriːfli/
adverbneutralBeginner
General
For a short time; concisely.
The meeting was over briefly.
💡 Simply: For a short time; quickly.
More Examples
2
She briefly mentioned the problem.
How It's Used
General
"He briefly explained the situation."
Business
"The CEO briefly addressed the employees."
From Middle English *briefliche, from Old French *brieflement, from brief ('short').
The word has maintained a consistent meaning throughout its history, signifying shortness of time or conciseness.
Memory tip
Think of 'brief' meaning short, so 'briefly' means shortly.
Practice
briefleybrifly
Usage
60%Spoken
40%Written