Words / B1

BREEFL-ee/ˈbriːfli/

Briefly means for a short time or in a few words. Brief is the adjective (already in the dictionary). Shortly means soon, not “in few words” — a common mix-up. Mark schemes: answer briefly; rambling is capped.

Meaning

For a short time; in a few words.

Examples

• “Answer briefly — the mark scheme caps rambling.”
• “The minister spoke only briefly, which is the time sense, not “soon”.”

Good to know

briefly + verb. Adjective: brief. Mix-up: shortly = soon. Exams / press conferences. Not “brief” as the adverb.

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