Gloss · Words · Laconic

laconic

ləˈkɑːnɪkadjective

What does laconic mean?

Using very few words, so that what is said carries weight.

Laconic, six ways

PlainUsing very few words, so that what is said carries weight.
ADHDFew words. Short answers. Nothing wasted.
Gen ZReplies in two words and somehow says more than your paragraph.
MetaphorA single stone dropped where someone else would pour gravel.
FormalUsing very few words; terse, with an effect of pointed brevity.
Like I’m 5Saying something in as few words as possible. That’s laconic.

How to pronounce laconic

luh-KON-ik/ləˈkɑːnɪk/

Laconic in a sentence

Her laconic reply was simply “No.”
His laconic texts drove her mad: “k.”
The general’s laconic report said only: “Done.”

Synonyms for laconic

terseBrief, sometimes rude.
conciseShort and complete, neutral.
taciturnSaying little, by habit.

Laconic vs taciturn: Laconic is saying a lot in few words. Taciturn is saying few words, full stop. The difference, in plain English.

Where laconic comes from

Greek. Lakōnikos, of Laconia, the region of Sparta, whose people were known for short replies.

Good to know

From Laconia, home of the Spartans, who were famous for short replies. A laconic answer is brief and often dry.

Laconic meaning, on a Gloss card: Using very few words, so that what is said carries weight.

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Laconic on one card: what it means, how to say it, and a sentence. Keep it, or pin it for later.

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Words like laconic

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