phrasing

noun

phras·​ing ˈfrā-ziŋ How to pronounce phrasing (audio)
1
: style of expression : phraseology
2
: the act, method, or result of grouping notes into musical phrases

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But this phrasing doesn’t belong to Nelson. Literary Hub, 22 Sep. 2025 But many — if not most — are interpreting the comment in a way that its phrasing does not entirely support. James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 18 Sep. 2025 Many questioned whether the teacher was being too rigid in expecting students to use the exact phrasing from a lesson rather than acknowledging correct mathematical reasoning. Daniella Gray, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025 The journalist has since released a statement addressing the phrasing of the question. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for phrasing

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of phrasing was in 1611

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Cite this Entry

“Phrasing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phrasing. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

phrasing

noun
phras·​ing
ˈfrā-ziŋ
1
2
: the act, method, or result of grouping notes into musical phrases

More from Merriam-Webster on phrasing

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