shorthand
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a system of fast writing that uses symbols instead of full words, often used by reporters.
n.a method of rapid writing using symbols or abbreviations for letters and words, typically used for recording speech.
Simple“The journalist took notes in shorthand so she wouldn't miss a single word.”
In context“Before digital recorders became standard, every court reporter had to be proficient in shorthand to produce accurate transcripts of the proceedings.”
UsageUncountable when referring to the system; countable when referring to a specific version.
SynonymsstenographystenotypeAntonymslonghand - 02 C2 Proficiency
v.to write something down using symbols or to describe a big idea very quickly.
v.to record speech in stenographic symbols or to represent a complex concept through an abbreviated form.
Simple“He tried to shorthand the main points of the lecture as the professor spoke.”
In context“The author tends to shorthand complex emotional states, relying on tropes rather than developing the characters' internal lives.”
SynonymsAntonyms
“The number “86” is often used as shorthand to mean to get rid of or remove something, while Trump is the 47th US president.”
“But explaining how they incorporate research into their family lives is a convenient shorthand that takes us to the heart of a complex issue.”
The noun is derived from short + hand (“handwriting; style of penmanship”). The verb is derived from the noun.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.