BRIEFLY Synonyms: 31 Similar and Opposite Words

briefly

adverb

ˈbrē-flē

Definition of briefly

as in concisely

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 The sudden sight of a dish so delicious — or grotesque — the body briefly forgets its need for oxygen. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 24 July 2026 Cordes and Haake are keen and tense, their hands raised, but Hasnie has relaxed, withdrawing briefly into her thoughts. — Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 24 July 2026 Jeremie appeared briefly at Boston Municipal Court on Thursday. — Flint McColgan, Boston Herald, 24 July 2026 When the Strait of Hormuz briefly reopened to healthy tanker traffic in mid-June, the market quickly returned to a glut balance. — David Blackmon, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for briefly

Recent Examples of Synonyms for briefly

Adverb

Maybe Spain never quite produced a picture-book goal to concisely summarise their style and quality.

— Michael Cox, New York Times, 20 July 2026
These systems predominantly elevate short-form content in which creators must speak quickly and concisely to get high engagement — limiting those who might opt for this form to make a living.

— Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 16 July 2026

Definition of concisely

Adverb

She was elected to the Raytown C-2 School Board in 2021, shortly before winning her legislative seat.

— Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 27 July 2026
McDonald has already been snapped up by Melbourne side St Kilda and will shortly depart for Australia to begin his AFL career.

— Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 27 July 2026

Definition of shortly

Browse Nearby Words

briefings

briefly

briefness

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“Briefly.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/briefly. Accessed 30 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of briefly

adverb

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