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.
The phrasing was indelicate, but the idea that Canada lacks a cohesive identity is not a novel proposition. Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 24 Apr. 2025 Today Raf’s front window signage has the same phrasing, while the interiors bear a European cafe-society aesthetic. Laura Neilson, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025 But whenever that phrasing is used, it is done so to signify that there could be a matter of much more consequence than a regular-season basketball game in early March. Jon Krawczynski, The Athletic, 8 Mar. 2025 The playing, singing, rhythm, phrasing — no one can do that anymore. Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 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 11 May. 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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