Brisk
/brɪsk/
adjectiveB1
Definition
Brisk describes something done fast and with energy, like walking or talking. It can also describe weather that is cool and refreshing, not warm or slow. When something is brisk, it feels lively and sharp.
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⚡ See It in Action
Quick and energetic movement or action
- •She took a brisk walk every morning to stay healthy.
- •The manager gave a brisk reply to the question.
- •He spoke in a brisk tone that showed he was busy.
Weather that is cool and refreshing
- •The brisk wind made us put on our jackets.
- •It was a brisk autumn day with clear skies.
- •The morning air was brisk and fresh after the rain.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "brisk" like "fast" (A1 word), but with more energy and liveliness, not just speed
- ✓Picture someone walking quickly with purpose, their steps making a clear sound on the street
- ✓It's the feeling you get on a fresh morning when the air is cool and wakes you up
- ✓Sounds like "brisk" → imagine a quick, sharp breeze that makes leaves move suddenly
- ✓Think of a brisk conversation where people talk quickly and clearly, not slowly or lazily
- ✓NOT like "slow" (moves without hurry), "brisk" means moving or acting with speed and energy
- ✓NOT like "warm" (weather), "brisk" weather feels cool and fresh, sometimes even a little cold
- ✓NOT like "lazy" or "calm," "brisk" has a sense of alertness and activity
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Fast: moving or happening quickly (Use when focusing only on speed without energy or freshness)
- •Energetic: full of energy (Use when emphasizing strong activity or power)
- •Fresh: cool and new feeling (Use especially for weather or air)
- •Lively: full of life and energy (Use when describing actions or atmosphere with excitement)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: (not made of smaller parts; a simple adjective)
- •Etymology: From Old Norse "briskr," meaning lively or quick
- •Historical development: Entered English in the 1500s with the meaning of quick and active movement, later also used for weather
- •Modern usage: Commonly used to describe quick actions, energetic behavior, and cool, fresh weather
💭 Reflect & Connect
•How does the feeling of brisk weather affect your mood or energy during the day?
•Can you think of times when being brisk in your actions helps you? When might it not help?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.She walked at a brisk pace ___ to catch the bus on time.
2.The brisk wind made the leaves ___ and fall from the trees.
3.His brisk answer showed he was ___ and did not want to waste time.
4.Unlike a slow walk, a brisk walk ___ your heart and muscles.
5.When the weather is brisk, people often wear ___ clothes to stay warm.
6.A brisk conversation usually happens when people are ___ and focused.
7.If you move too slowly, you are ___ a brisk pace.