🕰️ Short Shrift: The Fast-Track to Closure
Ever felt brushed off faster than you can say “I deserve better”? Well, welcome to the land of “short shrift,” where brevity isn’t just the soul of wit—it’s the whole package.
Definition: “Short shrift” refers to a brief and often dismissive amount of time or consideration given to someone or something. Typically, it’s used in contexts where one feels they’ve not been allotted the thorough attention or respect they were due.
Origins & History: The phrase originates from the Middle Ages, where it described the limited time a condemned prisoner was allowed to confess to a priest before execution. “Shrift” is derived from the Old English word “scrīfan,” meaning to prescribe penance. With such a grim backdrop, no wonder getting “short shrift” feels so harsh!
Related Terms and Synonyms:
- Brushoff
- Curt treatment
- Quick dismissal
- Brief encounter
- Swift resolution
Humor-Filled Quotes
“Giving me ‘short shrift’? Well, at least you saved me the effort of listening to excuses.” - 🎭 Anonymous
Proverbs & Common Phrases:
- “Time is of the essence” - meaning swift action must be taken, often paired with urgency and importance.
- “Quick and dirty” - getting a job done swiftly, albeit not perfectly.
Antonyms:
- Due consideration
- Thoughtful deliberation
- Ample time
Lit Recommendations:
- Book: “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller – not exactly about short shrift, but a satirical take on unfair dismissals in different contexts.
- Poem: “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” by T.S. Eliot – for anyone who’s ever felt dismissed before their time.
- Movie: “12 Angry Men” (1957) – ever imagine what giving due consideration looks like in real-time?
Inspirational Farewell:
“May you always find the time to both give and receive the due consideration deserved. After all, life’s too short for shrift of any kind.”
And now, a quiz just for you!
This outlet for our disdain of the inadequate attention we’ve received was penned by W. T. Wittywords, October 1st, 2023. The insight for today’s adventure: life may often seem hurried, but let’s strive to give and receive the thoughtful attention it truly wants.
