noun a brief or cursory treatment or attention
In literature, short shrift can refer to a character or idea being dismissed or dealt with hastily, without proper consideration or development.
Historically, short shrift was a term used in medieval times to describe the brief time given to a prisoner to make their confession before execution.
Short shrift is a legal term referring to a brief and cursory consideration of a matter. It is often used in the context of a criminal trial where a defendant is given little time or attention in the proceedings.
In a business context, short shrift may refer to a quick or dismissive treatment of an idea or proposal without thorough examination or consideration.
In the writing world, a writer may give short shrift to certain characters or plot points if they are not essential to the main storyline.
A psychologist may give short shrift to outdated therapeutic techniques in favor of evidence-based practices.
A lawyer may give short shrift to weak arguments in a case in order to focus on stronger points that will help their client win.
A teacher may give short shrift to irrelevant topics in a lesson plan in order to ensure that students focus on the key learning objectives.
A doctor may give short shrift to unproven medical treatments in favor of treatments that have been scientifically proven to be effective.