Phrase

/freɪz/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A group of words that express a concept and are used as a unit within a sentence.
She often quotes the phrase 'seize the day' to inspire her students.
An expression that conveys a particular meaning, often metaphorical or idiomatic.
The phrase 'kick the bucket' means to die.
A short musical passage or melody.
The song features a catchy phrase that repeats throughout the chorus.
verb
To express something in a particular way or to put into words.
She phrashed her concerns carefully to avoid offending anyone.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'phrase', from Latin 'phrasis', from Greek 'phrasis', meaning 'speech' or 'expression'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

catchphrase
A trendy or memorable phrase often used in advertising.
turn of phrase
An expression or wording that is the result of skilled or creative articulation.
phrasebook
A book of useful phrases for travelers.

Related Words

sentence
A set of words that conveys a complete thought.
clause
A group of words containing a subject and a predicate.
idiom
A phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning.

Slang Meanings

Word on the street.
That phrase is something everyone knows around here.
A catchy or popular saying.
They've got a phrase for everything these days.