Phrases: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to any short group of words intended to convey a particular meaning. Often used in everyday speech and writing.

• He often uses phrases like 'on the other hand' and 'as a matter of fact'.
• Her speech was full of interesting phrases.

Typically refers to a specific way of saying something that conveys a certain feeling or idea. Can be found in both written and spoken language.

• The expression 'break a leg' means 'good luck' in theater.
• She had a sad expression on her face.

A type of expression whose meaning is not predictable from the usual meanings of its constituent elements. Often culturally specific.

• He kicked the bucket, which is an idiom meaning 'he died'.
• Learning idioms is a fun way to understand English better.

Mostly refers to a well-known and wise statement that gives advice or reflects a common truth, often passed down through generations.

• 'Actions speak louder than words' is a common saying.
• My grandmother always told me the saying 'A stitch in time saves nine'.

Used when referring to a small group of words that express an idea and are part of a sentence. It often implies a specific set of words that convey a specific meaning or intent.

• She always uses interesting phrases in her speeches.
• I learned a few useful phrases in my French class.

Used more generally to refer to any collection of words without necessarily implying that they form a meaningful unit. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The teacher asked us to rearrange the group of words to form a sentence.
• A group of words flashed on the screen.

A more formal and technical term used mainly in linguistic or academic discussions to refer to any identifiable segment of language. It could include words, phrases, clauses, etc.

• A morpheme is the smallest unit of language that carries meaning.
• Linguists analyze different units of language to understand their functions.