I don't understand. The definition is "concise diction," yet the example includes "relying on the listener to supply the missing words." This seems to me to be the opposite: the complete lack of words. Unless the context is such bravura brachylogy that the ellipsis is obvious, and concise? Can someone please explain it to me? (quizzical emoticon)

From Webster's New Collegiate:

Diction n. L. dictio, a speaking...pp. of dicere, to say, orig., point out in words [related to Ger. zeigen--to point out]

"1) manner of expression in words; choice of words; wording; 2) manner of speaking or singing"

Seems the common's the secondary.

IP

No taxation without Representation!

That is not a sentence--(where is noun/verb?) but it does express a clear idea--

We do not want/Will not accept taxation with representation. Full sentance-- but by not being as pithy-- it loses PUNCH!

Help?

Oh, I understand now. You know, I think I was confusing the meaning of "concise" with "precise," even though precision is only one element of, um, concision?

Thanks!