brevity

 
Pronunciation: /ˈbrɛvɪti/

noun

[mass noun]
  • concise and exact use of words in writing or speech: the staff will edit manuscripts with a view to brevity and clarity for brevity, it is worth using these little symbols
  • shortness of time: the brevity of human life

Phrases

brevity is the soul of wit

proverb the essence of a witty statement lies in its concise wording and delivery.
[from Shakespeare's Hamlet ( ii. ii. 90)]

Origin:

late 15th century: from Old French brievete, from Latin brevitas, from brevis 'brief'