English Grammar
BRIEFLY vs SHORTLY
What is the difference and when do we use them?
Briefly means ‘for a short time’ or ‘in a few words’.
It indicates that something lasts for a short length of time or is stated in a few words.
Shortly means ‘soon’ ‘a short period of time
before or after something’,
or ‘in the immediate future.
Shortly can also mean ‘sharply’ or ‘in a rude or impatient way’.
BRIEFLY
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SHORTLY
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- The passengers were informed briefly of the boarding times.
- A sign on the door stated briefly that the store would be closed all day.
- Alex worked briefly as a waiter when he was a student.
- Please describe your experience as briefly as possible.
- The suspect hesitated briefly before answering the police officer.
- To put it briefly, the presentation was a disaster!
- I talked to Joe briefly before the meeting.
- Our conversation was briefly interrupted by a phone call.
- The company sent a letter briefly outlining their proposal.
- The author was once interviewed briefly on television.
- She responded briefly to the questions.
- He met her gaze briefly and looked away.
- We briefly discussed a few other options.
- Briefly, I think we should accept the offer.
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- The passengers were informed that they would embark shortly.
- Customers were informed that the store would close
shortly.
- Jack arrived shortly before the plane landed.
- Our team scored a goal shortly before half-time.
- Her new book will be published shortly.
- We heard the news shortly after lunch.
- She made a will shortly before her death.
- The result of the elections will be announced shortly.
- Shortly after moving to Rome, she found a job.
- Work on the house will be completed very shortly.
- My assistant will contact you shortly.
- “You already have the details.” he replied shortly.
- “That’s out of the question!” she said, shortly.
- "I can't do that now." he said shortly.
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Compare the following sentences:
“The boss will see you briefly.” (= for a short time)
“The boss will see you shortly.” (=soon)
“ I’m in a hurry.” said the boss,
shortly. (=sharply)
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