B1 10K+

Debrief

UK //diːˈbrif// US //diˈbrif// Pronunciation

Definition

To question someone after an event to gather information.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To discuss or review something after it happened.

Examples

• The team will debrief after the operation.
• Let's debrief on the project outcomes.
• He was debriefed by his superiors.

Usage notes

Common in military or corporate contexts after missions or meetings. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

debrief + object

Memory hint

Think of 'debrief' as 'de-brief' — taking off the pressure after a mission.

Collocations

• debriefing session
• after-action debrief
• official debrief
• post-mission debrief
• debrief report

Synonyms

• interview
• question
• analyze
• review
• discuss

Antonyms

• brief
• summarize

Common mistakes

• Using as a noun ('the debrief') incorrectly in informal settings.
• Confusing with 'brief' which means short.
• Using it without a clear object or context.