Definition

In a way that is sudden and often rude, without taking time to be polite or gentle.

Example

She answered the question brusquely, showing her impatience.

Conversation

Did you notice how he spoke to her brusquely?

Yeah, it was really surprising.

I wonder why he was so brusquely rude today.

Maybe he was having a bad day, but that doesn’t excuse it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Brusquely → It is formed from "brusque" (from French *brusque*, meaning blunt or abrupt) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "brusquely" means in a blunt or abrupt manner.

Memory Tip

Think of someone acting in a 'blunt' way ('brusque') — the '-ly' just means how they are acting. This helps you remember that 'brusquely' means acting in a blunt or abrupt manner.

Visually Confused Words