What does "terse" most nearly mean?

The term "terse" is often used to describe a style of communication that is brief and to the point, often with a sense of brevity that strips away unnecessary words. Therefore, "succinct" is the most appropriate synonym among the choices provided, as it conveys a similar meaning of being concise and expressing ideas clearly without extraneous detail.

In contexts where clarity and conciseness are valued, "terse" can convey directness and efficiency in communication, which aligns well with "succinct." It is an effective way to relay information without embellishment or lengthy explanations. Understanding this nuance is important, especially in fields that prioritize clarity in communication, such as the military or professional writing.