curtly
Definition
Adverb: - In a curt, abrupt, and discourteous manner. It describes speaking or responding in a way that is rudely brief, lacking in politeness or detail.
Usage
Use "curtly" to describe how someone says something. It emphasizes that the manner of speaking was blunt, sharp, and often perceived as rude or impatient. It is typically used with verbs of communication like "say," "reply," "answer," or "tell."
Examples
- "When asked for a reason, she curtly refused to answer."
- "The manager curtly dismissed the suggestion without discussion."
- "He nodded curtly and walked away, ending the conversation."
Advanced Usage
- To put/set someone curtly in their place: To rebuke someone sharply and definitively.
- The judge curtly set the lawyer in his place for interrupting.
Variants and Related Words
- Curt (adjective): Rudely brief in speech or manner.
- His curt reply left her feeling dismissed.
- Curtness (noun): The quality of being curt.
- The curtness of his email was unprofessional.
Synonyms
- Abruptly: In a sudden and unexpected way, often rudely.
- Brusquely: In a blunt, direct manner that can seem unfriendly.
- Shortly: In a few words; briefly and often impatiently.
- Tersely: In a concise, direct way that may seem abrupt.
Antonyms
- Politely: In a respectful and considerate manner.
- Verbosely: Using more words than necessary.
- Graciously: In a courteous, kind, and pleasant manner.
Related Phrases
- To cut someone short: To interrupt someone abruptly.
- He cut her short curtly when she began to explain.
- A curt reply/response/dismissal: A very brief and typically rude answer or rejection.
Adverb
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in a curt, abrupt and discourteous manner
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he told me curtly to get on with it
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he talked short with everyone
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he said shortly that he didn't like it
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