MEANING
Expressing much meaning in very few words, usually with a sharp, memorable point.
Use it for
A few words make a clear, memorable point.Give a character, essay, or summary a compact line that carries weight.
Words that belong together
- pithy remark
- pithy answer
- pithy summary
On the page
Her pithy answer ended the debate without raising her voice.
Nearby words
Opposite meanings
Word forms
- Base
- pithy
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Usage notes
Usually praises concise expression with substance; “terse” can instead imply abruptness or lack of warmth.
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