laconic

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/ləˈkɑːnɪk/
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A deliberately brief way of speaking or writing that uses few words and can sound blunt, reserved, or dry.

Examples

  • His laconic reply was simply "No."
  • The coach offered a laconic assessment after the match.
  • Her emails are polite but laconic.
  • A laconic note on the door said the office had moved.
  • The detective had a laconic manner that made witnesses nervous.

Similar words

concise
pithy
terse
succinct
curt
brief

Meanings

Usage

Use laconic when brevity carries a noticeable style or attitude, not merely when something is short.

Common mistakes

A short ordinary item is called laconic when short or brief would fit better.

Etymology

From Latin laconicus, from Greek lakonikos, meaning Spartan or Laconian, after Laconia, the region of Sparta, whose people were known for terse speech.

FAQ

What does laconic mean?

Laconic means using very few words, often in a blunt, reserved, or mysterious way.

Is laconic positive or negative?

Laconic can be neutral or mildly negative. It may suggest stylish brevity, but it can also sound curt or distant.

What is a laconic reply?

A laconic reply is a very short answer that gives little detail, such as a single-word response.

Is laconic the same as concise?

Not exactly. Concise usually praises efficient wording, while laconic can suggest bluntness or emotional reserve.

Where does laconic come from?

Laconic comes from words for Laconia and Sparta, whose people were famous for very brief speech.

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