brusque
adjective

- using very few words and sounding rude

- quick and direct in manner or speech, often not polite

- markedly short and abrupt; blunt in manner or speech

Oxford Learner's Dictionaries, Cambridge Dictionary, Merriam-Webster

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WORD ORIGIN

"Brusque" entered English in the 1650s from French brusque meaning "lively, fierce," which was introduced in the 16th century from Italian brusco meaning "sharp, tart, rough”.

The Italian word brusco possibly derives from Vulgar Latin bruscum meaning "butcher's broom plant," from Late Latin brucus meaning "heather," from Gaulish bruko- meaning "heather" or "moorland”.

The word traces back to plants like heather, suggesting the connection between the rough, prickly nature of certain plants and abrupt human behaviour and speech.



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BRIEF BUT NOT BRUTAL

In German business culture, directness is often valued over diplomatic niceties—a trait that might seem "brusque" to others but represents efficiency and honesty. Unfortunately, what Germans consider straightforward communication, Anglo-Saxons can perceive as rude or abrupt.

“Brusque" behaviour isn't inherently negative; it's contextual. The German concept of "Klartext reden" (speaking plainly) is considered positive. While brusqueness can damage relationships when misused, it has the advantage of cutting through ambiguity and achieving clarity.

We believe that context and “framing” determine how messages are received: messages delivered brusquely, can sound disrespectful. The fix isn’t flowery language; it’s a tiny dose of warmth and context. Add a first name, a thank-you, or a next step (“Got it—will revert by 4pm”).

Reserve true brevity for emergencies. And if you’re naturally concise, signal intent (“Short on time—not on interest”). The key lies in being brief without being brutal.

Helga & Paul Smith



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SYNONYMS

abrupt, blunt, BRUSQUE, crusty, curt, direct, gruff, impatient, sharp, short, terse, rough



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SMUGGLE
 OWAD into a conversation today, say something like:

“Jim, sorry if I sometimes sound BRUSQUE, it’s only the deadline talking.”

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P L E A S E   S U P P O R T   O W A D