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brusque

Adjective

IPA /bruːsk/

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Meaning in plain English

Speaking or behaving in a very brief, abrupt way that can make other people feel dismissed or treated rudely.

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Pronunciation

brusque/bruːsk/

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A question receives a patient explanation
A short, sharp reply sounds rude

A brusque reply is abrupt in manner and can make the listener feel dismissed.

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His brusque reply made me hesitate before asking another question.
The receptionist sounded brusque when I asked about the appointment.

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His ________ reply made me hesitate before asking another question.

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brusque — Speaking or behaving in a very brief, abrupt way that can make other people feel dismissed or treated rudely.

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Speaking or behaving in a very brief, abrupt way that can make other people feel dismissed or treated rudely.

Compare: His brusque reply made me hesitate before asking another question.

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Word origin

From French brusque, ultimately related to Italian brusco, meaning sour.

Did you know?

A brusque tone can sound rude even when the actual words are not insulting.

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