phrase
/fɹeɪz/
noun
🇬🇧 UK
/fɹeɪz/
🇺🇸 US
/fɹeɪz/
Meaning
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Meaning 1 · noun
A short written or spoken expression.
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Meaning 2 · noun
(grammar) A word or group of words that functions as a single unit in the syntax of a sentence, usually consisting of a head, or central word, and elaborating words.
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Meaning 3 · noun
A small section of music in a larger piece.
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Meaning 4 · noun
A mode or form of speech; diction; expression.
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Meaning 5 · verb
To express (an action, thought or idea) by means of particular words.
“I wasn't sure how to phrase my condolences without sounding patronising.”
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Meaning 6 · verb
To perform a passage with the correct phrasing.
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Meaning 7 · verb
To divide into melodic phrases.
How this word is used
- Everyday “I wasn't sure how to phrase my condolences without sounding patronising.”
- Academic “In academic writing, “phrase” can carry a precise technical sense.”
- Business “In business contexts, “phrase” should be used only when the meaning is unambiguous.”
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Synonyms
Origin
Origin information unavailable.