German Phrase
Nur kurz dazu.
Meaning
Literally 'only briefly about that', this short phrase is used to preface a quick comment or clarification on a topic that has just been mentioned.
When to use
Use it when you want to add a short remark, clarification, or answer without going into detail, especially in informal conversations, meetings, or online discussions.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Nurkurzdazu
Nur (only)
An adverb meaning 'only' or 'just', placed before the word or phrase it limits.
kurz (short/brief)
An adjective used adverbially to describe something that is brief in time.
dazu (about it / to that)
A prepositional adverb combining 'zu' + 'dem' that refers to a previously mentioned topic.
🗨In Conversation
Wir haben das neue Projekt besprochen, aber ich habe noch eine Frage zur Budgetplanung.
We discussed the new project, but I still have a question about the budgeting.
Nur kurz dazu: Wir können das Budget um 5 % erhöhen, wenn wir die Marketingkosten senken.
Just briefly on that: we can increase the budget by 5 % if we cut the marketing costs.
✕Common Mistakes
Nur kurz dazu sagen.
Adding 'sagen' is redundant; the phrase already implies speaking.
Nur kurz dazu, ich habe noch eine Frage.
A comma splice; better to use a full sentence after the phrase.
Nur kurz dazu ist das wichtig.
The phrase is not a subject; use a full clause like 'Nur kurz dazu: Das ist wichtig.'
↔Alternatives
Nur ein kurzer Hinweis.
Just a short note.
Kurz dazu gesagt.
Briefly said about it.
Ein kurzer Kommentar dazu.
A short comment on that.
Cultural Tip
In German, concise statements are appreciated in professional settings. 'Nur kurz dazu' signals that you respect the listener's time and will keep your input short. Avoid over‑explaining after using this phrase, as it can be seen as contradictory to the promise of brevity.