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debrief

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /dɪˈbrif/

KK: /diˈbrif/

transitive verb
Definition

To question someone in order to gather information or intelligence, especially after a mission or event.


Example

After the operation, the team was debriefed to discuss what happened and gather insights.


Tense Forms

Past: debriefed

Past Participle: debriefed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the meeting after the mission?
Sloth B
Yeah, they said they would debrief everyone involved.
Sloth A
I wonder what kind of questions they'll ask during the debrief.
Sloth B
Probably about the challenges we faced and how we can improve next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
interrogate
question
inquire
Antonyms
ignore
neglect
overlook
Root Explanation

Debrief → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "brief" (from Latin "brevis", meaning short). The word "debrief" means to take away or reduce the shortness of a report or information, typically after a mission or event.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') the 'short' information ('brief') after an event — that's what debrief means.

Visually Confused Words
brief
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