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laconic

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Dictionary definition of laconic

Characterized by brevity and a preference for using very few words to convey a message or express oneself.
"The boss's laconic feedback left the team uncertain about their progress."

Detailed meaning of laconic

When someone is described as laconic, it implies that they are concise and to the point, often using minimal words to communicate effectively. This term originates from the ancient Greek region of Laconia, known for its Spartan culture, where brevity in speech was highly valued. A laconic individual may convey a lot of meaning with just a few carefully chosen words, and their responses are typically devoid of unnecessary elaboration or verbosity. Laconic communication can be seen as efficient and direct, but it may also leave room for interpretation or require the listener or reader to infer more context.

Example sentences containing laconic

1. His laconic response left us wondering about his true feelings.
2. The captain's laconic orders conveyed his no-nonsense leadership style.
3. She had a reputation for being laconic, rarely engaging in lengthy conversations.
4. The diplomat's laconic statement defused the tension in the room.
5. His laconic humor always managed to elicit laughter from the audience.
6. Despite his laconic nature, he was a keen observer of human behavior.

History and etymology of laconic

The adjective 'laconic' has an intriguing etymology rooted in ancient Greece. It originates from the region of Laconia, which was home to the Spartans, a famous warrior society known for their succinct and disciplined communication style. The term 'laconic' emerged from the Greek word 'Lakonikos,' referring to the people of Laconia. The Spartans were renowned for their brevity and the art of saying much with few words, and this characteristic communication style gave rise to the word 'laconic' as we understand it today. 'Laconic' describes a person or communication that is concise, to the point, and characterized by the use of very few words to convey a message or express an idea, reflecting the Spartan influence on this term's evolution.

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Further usage examples of laconic

1. Her laconic writing style made her novels both mysterious and intriguing.
2. The old man's laconic wisdom was valued by everyone in the village.
3. His laconic response didn't provide the details we were hoping for.
4. The detective's laconic explanation revealed just enough to keep us intrigued.
5. The artist's laconic brush strokes conveyed a sense of simplicity and depth.
6. The chef's laconic recipe instructions were surprisingly easy to follow.
7. Her laconic smile hinted at a secret she wasn't willing to share.
8. The reporter's laconic account of the event left out crucial details.
9. The explorer's laconic journal entries captured the essence of his journey.
10. His laconic attitude towards fame and success was refreshing in the industry.
11. The professor's laconic lectures were often more thought-provoking than verbose ones.
12. The driver's laconic directions led us straight to our destination.
13. His laconic farewell carried a mix of emotions that words couldn't fully convey.
14. His laconic responses in meetings left others curious about his thoughts.
15. The detective's laconic style concealed his sharp analytical mind.
16. The laconic note simply read, "See you soon."
17. His laconic wit made him a master of one-liners.
18. The soldier's laconic demeanor revealed the toll of combat.
19. She appreciated his laconic communication during busy days.
20. The director's laconic instructions left room for creativity.
21. The poet's laconic verses conveyed profound emotions.
22. In negotiations, his laconic approach revealed his strategic edge.
23. The professor's lectures were famously laconic yet insightful.
24. Even in social settings, his laconic nature added an air of mystery.

clipped,crisp,short

eb68db_4b578c200fa445c194646d438db75089.mp3

terse, verbose, garrulous, loquacious

brusque,compact,concise,curt,pithy,succinct,terse

GRE 9 (Graduate Record Examination), Personality and Character Traits, Clarity and Candor, Discourse and Conveyance, Wisdom and Understanding, Order and System, Conversation and Expression

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