in a nutshell

Register · Informal Informal — used in casual, everyday conversation among friends and family. Avoid in formal writing or professional settings. CEFR B2

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Figurative meaning

expressed in a very brief and simple way

Why this phrase?

Pictures fitting something into a tiny nutshell; means 'briefly'.

Example

“In a nutshell, we need more time and money.”

Dictionary details

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

on the other hand Neutral · CEFR B1

used to introduce a contrasting point of view or alternative

take home message Neutral · CEFR B2

the main point or lesson you should remember from something

bad news Informal · CEFR A2

an unpleasant piece of information; (informal) a person or thing likely to cause trouble

so far so good Informal · CEFR A2

used to say that things have gone well up to now

at the end of the day Informal · CEFR B1

ultimately; when everything is considered

break the ice Neutral · CEFR B1

To do or say something that eases tension and gets people talking comfortably in an unfamiliar social situation.

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

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