Short shrift definitions
| Word backwards | trohs tfirhs |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | "Short shrift" is an idiom and a noun phrase. |
| Syllabic division | short shrift (\ 'sh��rt \ \ ˈshrift \) 1st word: 1 syllable 2nd word: 1 syllable |
| Plural | The plural of the word "short shrift" is "short shrifts." |
| Total letters | 11 |
| Vogais (2) | o,i |
| Consonants (5) | s,h,r,t,f |
When someone gives someone or something "short shrift," they are not giving it adequate attention or consideration. This phrase originated from the practice in medieval times of giving a hurried confession, or "short shrift," to a criminal condemned to death before their execution.
Origin of Short Shrift
The term "short shrift" comes from the Middle Ages when confessions were an essential part of the Christian faith. A priest would give a criminal "short shrift" when the confession was brief and hurried, typically just before the execution. The criminal had little time to confess their sins before facing their fate.
Meaning of Short Shrift
Today, giving something or someone "short shrift" means treating it as unimportant and not giving it the attention or time it deserves. It implies a quick or dismissive attitude towards a particular person or thing. This could be in the form of ignoring someone's opinions or rushing through a task without proper consideration.
Usage in Modern Language
This term is commonly used in everyday language to express dissatisfaction with how someone or something is being handled. For example, if a student presents a well-thought-out argument in class, but the teacher quickly dismisses it without consideration, one might say that the student was given "short shrift."
Overall, giving "short shrift" indicates a lack of respect or attention towards someone or something. It is important to be aware of how we treat others and ensure that everyone is given the time and consideration they deserve.
Short shrift Examples
- The professor gave the student's half-hearted excuse short shrift.
- The boss will give employees' complaints short shrift if they are not valid.
- The judge gave the defendant's flimsy alibi short shrift during the trial.
- The customer service representative gave the rude customer short shrift.
- The teacher gave the student's late homework short shrift and marked it down.
- The manager gave the repetitive presentation short shrift and asked for a new one.
- The referee gave the player's unsportsmanlike behavior short shrift with a red card.
- The principal gave the student's excuse for skipping class short shrift.
- The police officer gave the suspect's explanation short shrift and continued questioning.
- The editor gave the writer's poorly researched article short shrift and rejected it.