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Synonym Chooser

How is the word curt distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of curt are bluff, blunt, brusque, crusty, and gruff. While all these words mean "abrupt and unceremonious in speech and manner," curt implies disconcerting shortness or rude conciseness.

a curt command

Where would bluff be a reasonable alternative to curt?

The words bluff and curt are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bluff connotes good-natured outspokenness and unconventionality.

a bluff manner

When could blunt be used to replace curt?

While in some cases nearly identical to curt, blunt suggests directness of expression in disregard of others' feelings.

a blunt appraisal

When would brusque be a good substitute for curt?

The words brusque and curt can be used in similar contexts, but brusque applies to a sharpness or ungraciousness.

a brusque response

In what contexts can crusty take the place of curt?

The meanings of crusty and curt largely overlap; however, crusty suggests a harsh or surly manner sometimes concealing an inner kindliness.

a crusty exterior

When is it sensible to use gruff instead of curt?

In some situations, the words gruff and curt are roughly equivalent. However, gruff suggests a hoarse or husky speech which may imply bad temper but more often implies embarrassment or shyness.

puts on a gruff pose

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of curt There was drama between Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, leading to curt radio messages by Hamilton accusing Ferrari of poor teamwork when he got stuck behind his teammate while on faster tires. Sahil Kapur, NBC news, 4 May 2025 In an attempt to punish new castmate Angela Oakley for bringing an uninvited guest, Porsha stonewalls Angela throughout her celebratory dinner, resorting to curt, one-word answers whenever prodded by the group to participate. Shamira Ibrahim, Vulture, 12 May 2025 But his curt, at times browbeating, management style resurfaced, alienating some subordinates, according to former colleagues. Adam Goldman, New York Times, 25 Feb. 2025 Text generators tend to write long, even when the prompt is curt. Victoria Turk, The Atlantic, 29 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for curt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for curt
Adjective
  • In other words — not to be too blunt about it — employers took responsibility for training their workers to work for them.
    Amy Lindgren, Twin Cities, 5 July 2025
  • The man identified as Moore-Hodges walked away from the park around 3:50 a.m. According to the complaint, an autopsy on June 30 affirmed the victim died of multiple blunt force injuries to his head and neck.
    Ariela Lopez, jsonline.com, 4 July 2025
Adjective
  • The Journal Sentinel aims to provide both in-depth investigative journalism and quick, concise news updates.
    Greg Borowski, jsonline.com, 11 July 2025
  • Solution: The first step is to establish a concise cyber risk governance committee charter, a high-trust document that outlines the committee's responsibilities, authority, composition and decision-making boundaries.
    Phillimon Zongo, Forbes.com, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • However, her time in Fiji came to an abrupt end as shown during Episode 30, which aired on Sunday, July 6.
    Monica Mercuri, Forbes.com, 7 July 2025
  • The third free practice at Silverstone saw two red flags in the final ten minutes, bringing the session to an abrupt halt.
    Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 July 2025
Adjective
  • After earning a reputation as a tackling machine at Syracuse, Clark signed with the Cowboys and quickly saw some brief work with the first-team unit during minicamp while Wilson was sidelined.
    Nick Harris July 11, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 July 2025
  • Here is just a brief sampling: Evan Phillips: Out for the season.
    Dan Freedman, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • For beginners, Bravo recommends starting with short sessions and using a handle for support while your body adapts.
    Jordan Galloway, SELF, 15 July 2025
  • Nestled in the forest and just a short buggy ride from the main grounds, the one-bedroom Villa Pentágonos is the hotel's crown jewel—a retreat where nature and creature comforts coexist.
    Susmita Baral, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Human Rights Watch said M23’s efforts to consolidate control of Goma have involved possible war crimes, including the summary execution of civilians in February.
    Michela Wrong, NBC news, 6 June 2025
  • Unlike traditional employee income, business income does not always come with summary tax forms like the W2 at the end of the year.
    Vlad Rusz, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • Audiences can often sense the corporate overlords’ gruff hands pushing these previously distinct programs together.
    Ben Travers, IndieWire, 10 July 2025
  • Their gruff cheers mismatched the high-pitched hum of the buggies.
    William Liang, Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • Going from Pitch Stop to Drama Room meant a brusque shift, with all four projects grappling with questions either directly tied to or adjacent to modern masculinity.
    Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 21 June 2025
  • That voice — brusque, solidly accented, cured in cigarette smoke, marinated in Jack Daniels — comes to me all the time.
    The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Curt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/curt. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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