phrase
UK[freɪz]US[freɪz]
n
a group of words that have a particular meaning when used together
n
a short group of words that people often use as a way of saying something
v
to say or write something in a particular way
Etymology
The word 'phrase' entered English in the mid-16th century via Latin 'phrasis', which itself was borrowed from Greek 'phrasis', meaning 'speech' or 'way of speaking'. The Greek term derives from the verb 'phrazein', meaning 'to tell' or 'to declare'. The core semantic logic has remained remarkably consistent, evolving from the ancient concept of a 'manner of expression' to the modern, more specific grammatical and idiomatic sense of a meaningful word group.
Analysis
This word is a simplex loanword from Latin and Greek. It is not productively formed from smaller, recognizable morphemes within modern English spelling.
Examples
The phrase "kick the bucket" is an idiom meaning to die.
She carefully phrased her apology to avoid causing further offense.
The opening phrase of the symphony is instantly recognizable.