from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Phrase \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.
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"Convey" the wise it call. "Steal!" foh! a fico for
the phrase. --Shak.
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2. A short, pithy expression; especially, one which is often
employed; a peculiar or idiomatic turn of speech; as, to
err is human.
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3. A mode or form of speech; the manner or style in which any
one expreses himself; diction; expression. "Phrases of the
hearth." --Tennyson.
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Thou speak'st
In better phrase and matter than thou didst. --Shak.
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4. (Mus.) A short clause or portion of a period.
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Note: A composition consists first of sentences, or periods;
these are subdivided into sections, and these into
phrases.
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{Phrase book}, a book of idiomatic phrases. --J. S. Blackie.
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