phrase
1phrase
noun \ˈfrāz\Definition of PHRASE
1
: a characteristic manner or style of expression : diction
2
a : a brief expression; especially : catchphrase b : word
3
: a short musical thought typically two to four measures long closing with a cadence
4
: a word or group of words forming a syntactic constituent with a single grammatical function <an adverbial phrase>
5
: a series of dance movements comprising a section of a pattern
Examples of PHRASE
- Answer the questions in complete sentences, not phrases.
- She used the phrase “I strongly believe” too many times in her speech.
- Underline the key words or phrases in the paragraph.
- To borrow a phrase from my mother, I spend too much time “watching the boob tube” and not enough time outside.
Origin of PHRASE
Latin phrasis, from Greek, from phrazein to point out, explain, tell
First Known Use: 1530
Related to PHRASE
- Synonyms
- expression, idiom, figure of speech
2phrase
transitive verbphrasedphras·ing
Definition of PHRASE
1
a : to express in words or in appropriate or telling terms b : to designate by a descriptive word or phrase
2
: to divide into melodic phrases
Examples of PHRASE
- He phrased his version of the story in a way that made him look good.
- The question was awkwardly phrased.
- The singer phrased the music beautifully.
First Known Use of PHRASE
1570
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Previous Word in the Dictionary: phrasal verb
All Words Near: phrase
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