plural phrases
1
: a group of two or more words that express a single idea but do not usually form a complete sentence
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.
an adverbial/adjectival phrase
2
: a brief expression that is commonly used
To borrow a phrase from my mother, I spend too much time "watching the boob tube" and not enough time outside.
a famous phrase
3
music
: a short section of a longer piece of music
musical phrases
phrases; phrased; phrasing
1
: to say (something) in a particular way
He phrased his version of the story in a way that made him look good.
The question was awkwardly phrased.
2
: to perform (a piece of music) with the notes grouped together in a particular way
The singer phrased the music beautifully.
Cite this Entry
“Phrase.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/phrase. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
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