Make a long story short

The expression Make a long story short is one of the idioms that often finds a place in our literature and enriches our language. However, its meaning is not fully understood, so it is sometimes used in the wrong situations. Please review the explanation carefully for the correct use of the Make a long story short idiom.

Meaning of "Make a long story short"

Meaning

The idiom ‘Make a long story short’ is used when someone wants to explain something but is short of time or has already invested a lot of time in the explanation. It essentially means to summarise or condense a longer narrative into a few words that can provide the general idea. In other words, it means to get to the point without wasting time on unnecessary details.

Etymology

The phrase "make a long story short" is believed to have originated in the 16th century. During the time, it was used to denote skipping over unnecessary details in order to quickly get to the point. The phrase came from the popular saying that “a long story is no good until it is finished.”

Usage

The phrase “make a long story short” is often used as a way to quickly provide a summary or to cut to the chase. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as when someone is talking about their day or when they are trying to tell a story. It is often used to save time, as well as to show that the speaker is trying to get to the point quickly and efficiently. It can also be used as a way to lighten the mood and keep conversations casual.

Example Sentences

• "I don't have enough time to explain everything, so I'll make a long story short. I finally got the job I wanted!"
• "I had the craziest day at the office yesterday - I don't even know where to begin. I'll make a long story short - my boss was angry at me for something I didn't do."
• "I know you're interested in the details, but I'm in a rush - let me make a long story short and just say that I got the promotion."

From Shakespeare to Social Media: The Evolution of English Idioms

English idioms have been around for centuries, with many originating from sources like literature, mythology, and everyday life. Shakespeare, for example, coined many phrases that are still used today, such as "break the ice" and "heart of gold." Over time, new idioms have emerged, with social media and popular culture providing rich sources of inspiration. For instance, the phrase "throwing shade" came into use in the 1990s thanks to ball culture, but has since been popularized by social media.