The word “brief” generally means a short, concise and clear instruction or explanation. Its meaning shifts slightly depending on where it is used.
In general
A summary of the short instructions, expectations and goals given to the person who will do a job.
In design, advertising and marketing
The document a client or manager provides before a project begins. It sets out:
- the purpose of the project,
- the target audience,
- the delivery date,
- the desired style,
- the materials to be used,
- the must-haves.
In law
A short summary or presentation document a lawyer prepares about a case or situation.
In everyday use
It is also used to mean “to explain briefly”, as in “What’s the brief?”, meaning “What are we doing, in short?”.
