Her brusque tone was meant to discourage further conversation.

Adam's brusque tone had pricked the bubble of her excitement.

When I said he didn't look fine, he told me to keep my opinions to myself, speaking in a brusque tone that was unlike him.

D'Agosta found himself growing irritated at her brusque, disrespectful tone.

Don's brusque tone told us more than the words.

The brusque tone hardly changed, but Gromylko could tell the difference.

"Good evening," answered the visitor, in a brusque tone.

"Go on," he commanded in a clipped, rather brusque tone.

Despite her brusque tone, a sense of protectiveness lingered in him.

"The young woman is seduced," said George, in a rather brusque tone.