phrasing

noun

phras·​ing ˈfrā-ziŋ 

1

: style of expression : phraseology

2

: the act, method, or result of grouping notes into musical phrases

Synonyms of phrasing

• voice
• formulation
• wording
• expression

Examples of phrasing in a Sentence

The phrasing of the instructions was confusing.

a singer known for her elegant phrasing

Recent Examples on the Web

That’s why the phrasing of questions matters so much. — King Holder, Rolling Stone, 4 June 2026

Swain’s instinct for simple but resonant phrasing is a big part of his appeal. — Jason Dove Mark, The Atlantic, 11 June 2026

The phrasing would aim to prevent Tehran from using Hezbollah and the conflict in Lebanon as a bargaining chip in its own ceasefire negotiations. — Elena Becatoros, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2026

Both share red, white and green bands, but the pre-revolutionary flag also has a lion and the sun in the middle of its white band, while the official flag instead has an Islamic symbol and phrasing. — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 25 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for phrasing

• blazing
• brazing
• crazing
• gazing
• glazing
• grazing
• hazing
• phasing
• praising
• raising
• razing
• amazing

Kids Definition

phrasing

noun

phras·​ing

ˈfrā-ziŋ

1

: phraseology sense 1

2

: the act, method, or result of grouping notes into musical phrases