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shorthand

noun

/ˈʃɔrtˌhænd/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of shorthand

A system of rapid writing that uses abbreviations, symbols, or shortened forms of words to capture and record information quickly.
"The court stenographer used shorthand to transcribe the trial proceedings accurately."

Detailed meaning of shorthand

It is a method employed to take down spoken words or transcribe written text with great speed and efficiency. Shorthand is often used in note-taking situations where there is a need to capture large volumes of information in a concise manner. Various shorthand systems exist, such as Pitman, Gregg, and Teeline, each with its own set of symbols and rules. Shorthand is primarily employed by stenographers, secretaries, journalists, and individuals in other professions where fast and accurate transcription is essential. This system allows for the condensation of words and phrases into brief symbols or strokes, enabling the writer to keep pace with spoken dialogue or quickly record written content. The skill of shorthand can greatly enhance productivity and facilitate effective communication in situations that require rapid documentation.

Example sentences containing shorthand

1. Learning shorthand helped me take notes more efficiently during lectures.
2. The journalist relied on her shorthand skills to capture quotes during interviews.
3. The secretary's shorthand expertise allowed her to type meeting minutes in real-time.
4. My grandmother, a former secretary, still remembers how to write in shorthand.
5. The shorthand symbols on the page looked like a secret code to the untrained eye.
6. The student practiced shorthand diligently to improve her speed and accuracy.

History and etymology of shorthand

The term 'shorthand' has an intriguing etymology rooted in its purpose. It stems from the combination of two Old English words: 'scort,' meaning 'short,' and 'hand,' referring to the hand as the instrument of writing. This combination, 'scort hand,' essentially conveyed the idea of writing or recording something in a concise or abbreviated manner using one's hand. Over time, this concept evolved and developed into the modern understanding of shorthand as a system of rapid writing that employs abbreviations, symbols, or shortened forms of words to capture and record information quickly. The etymology of 'shorthand' highlights its historical role as a tool for efficient and expedited transcription.

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Further usage examples of shorthand

1. The shorthand notebook was filled with a wealth of information from the conference.
2. The reporter's shorthand notebook was an invaluable resource for writing the article.
3. The executive used shorthand to jot down ideas and reminders on sticky notes.
4. During the press conference, the politician noticed the stenographer's shorthand machine capturing every word.
5. The shorthand training program offered a comprehensive curriculum to master the skill.
6. Learning shorthand can help you take notes more efficiently.
7. Stenographers often use shorthand to transcribe spoken words.
8. The reporter's shorthand skills ensured accurate interviews.
9. Shorthand is essential for court reporters to capture testimony.
10. The secretary used shorthand to draft meeting minutes.
11. Taking notes in shorthand saves time during lectures.
12. Stenographers can write at incredible speeds using shorthand.
13. Learning medical shorthand is crucial for healthcare workers.
14. The journalist's shorthand notebook was filled with quotes.
15. Legal documents often include passages in legal shorthand.
16. Court proceedings rely on stenographers' use of shorthand.
17. The shorthand system evolved over centuries for efficiency.
18. Shorthand is a valuable tool for recording spoken language.
19. Journalists use shorthand to cover live events efficiently.
20. The conference interpreter used shorthand to keep up.
21. Shorthand is an indispensable skill in the transcription field.
22. Secretaries in the 20th century commonly used shorthand.
23. Shorthand allows reporters to capture every word spoken.
24. Taking notes in shorthand is faster than longhand writing.
25. The detective's shorthand notes helped solve the case.