Word
brisk
US/ˈbɹɪsk/
UK/bɹˈɪsk/
Definition
adj. quick, energetic, and active. You use this to describe a pace that is fast but not quite running, or a cold wind that feels fresh.
adj. characterised by speed, energy, or a refreshing coldness. Often used to describe physical movement or weather conditions.
Examples
“We went for a brisk walk in the park.”
“The manager led a brisk meeting to ensure everyone could return to their desks by noon.”
“A brisk autumn wind swept through the valley, clearing the morning fog and revealing the vibrant colors of the changing leaves.”
Examples
simple
“We went for a brisk walk in the park.”
contextual
“The manager led a brisk meeting to ensure everyone could return to their desks by noon.”
complex
“A brisk autumn wind swept through the valley, clearing the morning fog and revealing the vibrant colors of the changing leaves.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun like 'walk', 'pace', or 'breeze'.
Real-World Examples
“A brisk one-mile walk on a treadmill is a simple fitness test.” “Before the match there was a brisk trade on both Graeme Souness flags and boiled sweets.” Etymology
Uncertain; probably a collateral form of brusque, but compare Irish briosc, Scottish Gaelic brisg, Welsh brys.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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