in a word
used before giving a very simple answer or explanation

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

in a word
briefly described.
The final report was, in a word, ridiculous.

Related vocabulary: in short, in brief

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

in a word
briefly, to sum up
In a word, the problem with the car is that it needs a new motor.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

in a word
{adv. phr.} Briefly; to give the meaning of what has been said or written in a word or in a few words; in summary.
The children could play as long as they liked, they had no work to do, and nobody scolded them; in short, they were happy.

The speaker didn't know his subject, nor did he speak well; in brief, he was disappointing.

John is smart, polite, and well-behaved. In a word, he is admirable.

See: IN BRIEF.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲