Phrase

/ˈfɹeɪ̯z/ · noun

Meaning

A short written or spoken expression..

Definitions by Sense

1. A short written or spoken expression.
2. (grammar) A word or, more commonly, a group of words that functions as a single unit in the syntax of a sentence, always containing an expressed or implied head (the principal word or subgroup, with core importance) and often consisting of a head plus some other elaborating words.
3. (music) A small section of music in a larger piece.
4. (archaic) A mode or form of speech; diction; expression.
5. (dance) A short individual motion forming part of a choreographed dance.
6. (transitive) To express (an action, thought or idea) by means of particular words.
7. (transitive, intransitive, music) To perform (a passage) with a particular phrasing.
8. (transitive, music) To divide into melodic phrases.

Example Sentences

Holonyms: clause, sentence; phrasing, phraseology, turn of phrase; phrase-book; document, message; language; communication

Meronyms: head, complement, adjunct, supplement, modifier; term, word

Congratulations on managing to use the phrase “preponderant criterion” in a chart (“On your marks”, November 9th). Was this the work of a kakorrhaphiophobic journalist set a challenge by his colleagues, or simply an example of glossolalia?

There is always a head in a phrase. When it is not accompanied by anything else, we have a one-word phrase. Cheese can be an NP [noun phrase], and so can squid. If we didn't allow one-word phrases, we'd often have to say "either a noun or an NP," "either a verb or a VP," and so on. When I talk about a phrase, always remember that I don't mean a unit containing more than one word; I mean a unit with at least one word (the head), which may contain other words as well.

Thou speak'st / In better phrase and matter than thou didst.

[…] From out a common vein of memory / Sweet household talk, and phrases of the hearth, […]

I wasn't sure how to phrase my condolences without sounding patronising.

These suns — for so they phrase 'em.

Synonyms for phrase

Antonyms for phrase

Related Words

Word Forms

• phrases
• phrasing
• phrased

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions