BRIEFLY Synonyms: 31 Similar and Opposite Words

briefly

adverb

ˈbrē-flē

Definition of briefly next

as in concisely

in a few words tell us briefly why you chose this position

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of briefly Grandmasters from Russia and other Soviet republics occupied the chess summit from 1927 to 2007 in a procession of world champions that was interrupted only briefly by Dutchman Max Euwe in the 1930s and American Bobby Fischer in the 1970s. —

CNN Money, 12 June 2026 The area was briefly closed while police investigated. —

Harry Harris, Mercury News, 12 June 2026 The resident and a good Samaritan who stopped to help briefly became trapped behind the home because of the intense heat. —

Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 12 June 2026 The camera caught Maher smiling briefly before appearing somewhat caught off guard by the punchline. —

Lily Brown, PEOPLE, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for briefly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for briefly

Adverb

Keep it short and sweet Responding concisely and confidently will assuage any lingering concerns an employer might have about your work history, McGoff says.

— Sophie Caldwell, CNBC, 1 Apr. 2026
One of the strengths of the film is a precise visual design that alternates between distance and intimacy, with Caswill using the landscapes of her Alberta location to clearly and concisely express the sense of loneliness and isolation afflicting her heroine.

— Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 12 Mar. 2026