Cool MatePhrase
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.