variants also brusk
Definition of brusquenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word brusque distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of brusque are bluff, blunt, crusty, curt, and gruff. While all these words mean "abrupt and unceremonious in speech and manner," brusque applies to a sharpness or ungraciousness.

a brusque response

In what contexts can bluff take the place of brusque?

The meanings of bluff and brusque largely overlap; however, bluff connotes good-natured outspokenness and unconventionality.

a bluff manner

When might blunt be a better fit than brusque?

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

a blunt appraisal

Where would crusty be a reasonable alternative to brusque?

The words crusty and brusque are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, crusty suggests a harsh or surly manner sometimes concealing an inner kindliness.

a crusty exterior

When could curt be used to replace brusque?

The synonyms curt and brusque are sometimes interchangeable, but curt implies disconcerting shortness or rude conciseness.

a curt command

When is gruff a more appropriate choice than brusque?

While the synonyms gruff and brusque are close in meaning, 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 brusque Over the years, Braunwald continued his work, his brusque manner occasionally rubbing his subordinates and colleagues the wrong way. Lawrence K. Altman, STAT, 7 May 2026 European allies already had plenty of experience of Zelensky’s brusque manner. Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026 Known for his brusque demeanor, Brush frequently courted controversy. Libby Cierzniak, IndyStar, 20 Feb. 2026 That puts her at odds with Ray, whose investment in her son hinges on a brusque, performative disregard for Colin’s happiness. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for brusque
Recent Examples of Synonyms for brusque
Adjective
  • Germany's World Cup run came to an abrupt end in the Round of 32 after a 4-3 penalty shootout loss to Paraguay.
    Amber Harding OutKick, FOXNews.com, 5 July 2026
  • Naval liaison groups have yet to comment on the abrupt U-turns, although the Joint Maritime Intelligence Center repeated on Sunday that Iranian forces continue to harass shipping.
    Weilun Soon, Fortune, 5 July 2026
Adjective
  • In the photo, Hargitay leaned out of a car window, showing off a tousled blunt bob with golden ends, styled in a deep side part.
    Meg Walters, InStyle, 5 July 2026
  • Gupta considers the blanket rent freeze a blunt tool that doesn't adequately address the affordability crisis.
    James Cirrone, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026
Adjective
  • Abraham Lincoln furiously scribbled in Springfield on June 27, 1858, firing off a gruff note to the editor-in-chief of the Chicago Press & Tribune, then in business for only 11 years.
    Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2026
  • But Rose bet that a less gruff voice, ultimately Mike Brown’s, was required to win it all.
    Sean Gregory, Time, 14 June 2026
Adjective
  • After three minutes of routine and relatively curt responses, Redick was asked about the difficulty of closing a team out in a playoff series.
    Law Murray, New York Times, 1 May 2026
  • There are at least three potential James Bonds among these actors, and each displays his own brand of curt, strapping charm.
    Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 23 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • One of the easiest make-ahead dishes is a stir-fry, and a short ingredient list adds to its appeal.
    Katlyn Moncada, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 July 2026
  • This short-sleeve tee is wrinkle-resistant and has a crew neckline.
    Rachel Trujillo, PEOPLE, 7 July 2026
Adjective
  • Due Amici brings Brooklyn roots and authenticity, right down to the counter service that’s not rude but not exactly warm.
    Peter St. Onge Updated June 24, Charlotte Observer, 24 June 2026
  • It’s widely considered rude and annoying when people cluster by the train doors if there are more people on the platform attempting to get on.
    Claudia Fisher, Travel + Leisure, 15 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Brusque.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/brusque. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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