How to Pronounce Brief

To pronounce "brief", say BRIEF — one syllable, IPA /bɹiːf/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

brief

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Accent

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Speed

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1

Syllable

5

Letters

/bɹiːf/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “brief”

"brief" is a single-syllable word — say it in one clean beat. It rhymes with grief and motif, if that helps it stick.

What does brief mean?

noun

  1. A writ summoning one to answer to any action.
  2. An answer to any action.

verb

  1. To summarize a recent development to some person with decision-making power.

    “The U.S. president was briefed on the military coup and its implications on African stability.”

  2. To write a legal argument and submit it to a court.

adjective

  1. Of short duration; happening quickly.

    “Her reign was brief but spectacular.”

  2. Concise; taking few words.

    “His speech of acceptance was brief but moving.”

Hear “brief” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with brief

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

griefmotifbeliefreliefliefdisbeliefbeefreefsheafleitmotiffiefleaf

Related words

abbreviatedconciseshortlittlemomentimmediatefleetingshort-lived

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "brief"?▾

"Brief" has one syllable.

What is the IPA transcription of "brief"?▾

The IPA transcription of "brief" is /bɹiːf/.

What does "brief" mean?▾

Brief: A writ summoning one to answer to any action.

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