Phrase: meaning, definitions and examples

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phrase

[ freɪz ]

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in linguistics

A group of words that function as a single unit in the syntax of a sentence.

Synonyms

group of words, word group

Examples of usage

The term 'noun phrase' refers to a phrase that functions as a noun in a sentence.
In English, a phrase typically consists of a head noun and any modifiers or complements.

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common usage

A short, pithy expression that conveys a particular message.

Synonyms

expression, idiom, saying

Examples of usage

'Actions speak louder than words' is a well-known phrase.
She ended her speech with an inspiring phrase about unity.

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informal

To express something in a particular way or using particular words.

Synonyms

articulate, word

Examples of usage

He phrased his apology carefully to avoid any misunderstandings.
Can you phrase that question differently?

Translations

Translations of the word "phrase" in other languages:

🇵🇹 frase

🇮🇳 वाक्यांश

🇩🇪 Satz

🇮🇩 frasa

🇺🇦 фраза

🇵🇱 fraza

🇯🇵 フレーズ

🇫🇷 phrase

🇪🇸 frase

🇹🇷 ifade

🇰🇷 구

🇸🇦 عبارة

🇨🇿 fráze

🇸🇰 fráza

🇨🇳 短语

🇸🇮 fraza

🇮🇸 setning

🇰🇿 сөйлем

🇬🇪 ფრაზა

🇦🇿 ifadə

🇲🇽 frase

Word origin

The word 'phrase' originated from the Latin word 'phrasis', which means 'manner of expression'. It has been used in English since the 16th century to refer to a group of words. Over time, it has evolved to also mean a short expression or a way of wording something. The versatility of the word 'phrase' has made it a fundamental concept in both linguistics and everyday communication.