Give somebody/something/get short shrift
phrase
To ignore or dismiss someone or something in a rude manner or without proper consideration.
The company gave short shrift to his proposal.
Often appears as...
- give somebody short shrift
- offer short shrift
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To provide a small amount of attention, consideration or time to somebody or something.
The critical issues in his book get short shrift.
Often appears as...
- give something short shrift
- get short shrift
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To ignore or dismiss someone or something in a rude manner or without proper consideration.
The company gave short shrift to his proposal.
Often appears as...
- give somebody short shrift
- offer short shrift
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To provide a small amount of attention, consideration or time to somebody or something.
The critical issues in his book get short shrift.
Often appears as...
- give something short shrift
- get short shrift
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
Using 'give short shrift' often implies rudeness or impatience.
He gave the customer's complaint short shrift, causing more frustration.
Pro Tip 2/3Social Context
Best used in informal situations, could be seen as disrespectful in formal contexts.
During the meeting, she gave his ideas short shrift, and others noticed.
Pro Tip 3/3Use with Objects
The phrase can refer to concepts or proposals, not just to people.
The new policy gave environmental concerns short shrift.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
Using 'give short shrift' often implies rudeness or impatience.
He gave the customer's complaint short shrift, causing more frustration.
Pro Tip 2/3Social Context
Best used in informal situations, could be seen as disrespectful in formal contexts.
During the meeting, she gave his ideas short shrift, and others noticed.
Pro Tip 3/3Use with Objects
The phrase can refer to concepts or proposals, not just to people.
The new policy gave environmental concerns short shrift.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
Using 'give short shrift' often implies rudeness or impatience.
He gave the customer's complaint short shrift, causing more frustration.
Pro Tip 2/3Social Context
Best used in informal situations, could be seen as disrespectful in formal contexts.
During the meeting, she gave his ideas short shrift, and others noticed.
Pro Tip 3/3Use with Objects
The phrase can refer to concepts or proposals, not just to people.
The new policy gave environmental concerns short shrift.
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