Phrase (?), n. [F., fr. L. phrasis diction, phraseology, Gr. , fr. to speak.] 1. 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.
2. A short, pithy expression; especially, one which is often employed; a peculiar or idiomatic turn of speech; as, to err is human.
3. 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.
4. 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.
Phrase book, a book of idiomatic phrases.
J. S. Blackie.
© Webster 1913.
Phrase, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Phrased (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Phrasing.] [Cf. F. phraser.] To express in words, or in peculiar words; to call; to style. "These suns -- for so they phrase 'em."
Shak.
© Webster 1913.
Phrase, v. i. 1. To use proper or fine phrases. [R.]
2. Mus. To group notes into phrases; as, he phrases well. See Phrase, n., 4.
© Webster 1913. | 
