phrase

Meanings

Noun

• A short written or spoken expression.
• 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.
• A small section of music in a larger piece.
• A mode or form of speech; diction; expression.
• A short individual motion forming part of a choreographed dance.

Verb

• To express (an action, thought or idea) by means of particular words.
• To perform a passage with the correct phrasing.
• To divide into melodic phrases.

Related

Similar words

• figure of speech, locution

Origin

• From Late Latin phrasis ("diction"), from Ancient Greek φράσις ("manner of expression"), from φράζω.