French word

brusquement

Pronunciation

IPA/bʁyskəmɑ̃/

Meaning

  • adverbcurtly

Example

Il a répondu brusquement.

He answered curtly.

Illustration for brusquement (curtly)

More examples

Elle a parlé brusquement pendant la réunion.

She spoke brusquely during the meeting.

Core concept

A reply or movement that cuts off with a short, cold jolt.

Common phrases

  • répondre brusquement

    answer brusquely

  • parler brusquement

    speak brusquely

Similar words

soudainement: Suddenly, without warning or any prior indication.
sèchement: In a cold, curt, and dismissive manner.

Definition in French

Marque une parole ou une action faite de façon sèche et soudaine.

Word origin

Brusquement is formed from the adjective brusque with the adverb ending -ment; brusque entered French from Italian brusco.

Usage tips

  • Brusquement can describe a curt manner as well as a sudden action, whereas soudainement focuses on sudden timing.

Other meanings

  • abruptlyadverb

Opposites

Related words

  • brusquebrusqueadjective
  • brusquerhandle roughlyverb

Word lists with this word