phrase Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun an expression consisting of one or more words forming a grammatical constituent of a sentence
noun a short musical passage
musical phrase.
noun an expression whose meanings cannot be inferred from the meanings of the words that make it up
idiom; set phrase; idiomatic expression; phrasal idiom.
noun dance movements that are linked in a single choreographic sequence
verb put into words or an expression
articulate; word; formulate; give voice.
- He formulated his concerns to the board of trustees
verb divide, combine, or mark into phrases
- phrase a musical passage

F., fr. L. phrasis diction, phraseology, Gr. , fr. to speak.

A brief expression, sometimes a single word, but usually two or more words forming an expression by themselves, or being a portion of a sentence; as, an adverbial phrase.
"Convey" the wise it call. "Steal!" foh! a fico for the phrase. Shak.
A short, pithy expression; especially, one which is often employed; a peculiar or idiomatic turn of speech; as, to err is human.
A mode or form of speech; the manner or style in which any one expreses himself; diction; expression. "Phrases of the hearth." Tennyson.
Thou speak'st In better phrase and matter than thou didst. Shak.
(Mus.) A short clause or portion of a period. ✍ A composition consists first of sentences, or periods; these are subdivided into sections, and these into phrases. J. S. Blackie.

Cf. F. phraser.

imperfect & past participle Phrased ; present participle & verbal noun Phrasing

To express in words, or in peculiar words; to call; to style. "These suns -- for so they phrase 'em." Shak.