A1noun2K

Phrase

UK /["/freɪz/"]/US /["/freɪz/"]/

Definition

a group of words that have a particular meaning when used together

In simple words: A group of words that have a meaning together.

Examples

  • Can you teach me this phrase in French?
  • She used a beautiful phrase in her poem.
  • I heard a new phrase on the radio today.
  • He always uses the same phrase when he greets me.
  • The phrase 'thank you' is important in any language.

Usage notes

Use 'phrase' to describe specific groups of words, often in the context of language and communication. Avoid using it in highly formal writing where a more precise term might be expected.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Think of a box of 'phrases' — they come together to create meaning!

Collocations

  • colloquial
  • idiomatic
  • key
  • employ
  • turn
  • use
  • book
  • in a/​the phrase
  • a choice of phrase
  • a turn of phrase
  • colloquial
  • idiomatic
  • key
  • employ
  • turn
  • use
  • book
  • in a/​the phrase
  • a choice of phrase
  • a turn of phrase

Synonyms

  • expression
  • clause
  • segment
  • locution
  • utterance

Antonyms

  • single word
  • term
  • word

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'phrase' with 'sentence' which is a complete thought.
  • Using 'phrase' to refer to a single word.
  • Not understanding that phrases can vary in length.