laconism
/ˈlækəˌnɪzəm/
NOUN
1. Extreme brevity of expression
The quality or style of expressing thoughts, ideas, or information in very few words, emphasizing conciseness and economy of language without unnecessary elaboration.
1.1. Speech and conversation
Used to describe a speaking style characterized by extreme brevity, where a person communicates thoughts or responds to questions using only a few carefully chosen words.
Synonyms
- brevity
- terseness
- conciseness
- succinctness
- briefness
- laconicism
- concision
Antonyms
- verbosity
- loquacity
- garrulousness
- talkativeness
- wordiness
- long-windedness
- prolixity
Examples
- His speech was marked by a noticeable laconism, capturing the audience's attention with concise and impactful statements.
- The diplomat's response to the crisis was a model of laconism, providing a succinct yet comprehensive overview of the situation.
Related Words
- reticence
- taciturnity
- reserve
- pithiness
- economy of expression
- understatement
1.2. Writing and literary expression
Used to describe a writing style that conveys complex ideas, arguments, or emotions through carefully selected words, avoiding unnecessary explanations and embellishments.
Synonyms
- brevity
- conciseness
- terseness
- succinctness
- pithiness
- compendiousness
Antonyms
- prolixity
- verbosity
- diffuseness
- wordiness
- lengthiness
- long-windedness
Examples
- The author's writing style is characterized by a deliberate use of laconism, conveying complex ideas with brevity.
- The professor appreciated the student's essay for its clarity and laconism, avoiding unnecessary embellishments.
- The poet's verses embraced the beauty of laconism, expressing profound emotions with minimal words.
Related Words
- precision
- compression
- condensation
- crispness
- economy of language
- concision
NOUN
2. A brief and pointed expression
A short, concise statement, remark, or sentence that communicates an idea or observation in a direct and economical manner.
2.1. Short sayings and remarks
Used to refer to a particularly brief statement or utterance that expresses an idea, opinion, or observation in very few words.
Synonyms
- laconicism
- terse saying
- brief expression
- epigram
Antonyms
- long-winded statement
- lengthy discourse
- verbose expression
- prolixity
Examples
- The diplomat's laconism became memorable because it conveyed a complicated position in just a few words.
- His brief response was a perfect example of laconism, leaving no room for unnecessary discussion.