- Phrase book
- 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.
[1913 Webster]
``Convey'' the wise it call. ``Steal!'' foh! a fico for the phrase. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
2. A short, pithy expression; especially, one which is often employed; a peculiar or idiomatic turn of speech; as, to err is human. [1913 Webster]
3. A mode or form of speech; the manner or style in which any one expreses himself; diction; expression. ``Phrases of the hearth.'' --Tennyson. [1913 Webster]
Thou speak'st In better phrase and matter than thou didst. --Shak. [1913 Webster]
4. (Mus.) A short clause or portion of a period. [1913 Webster]
Note: A composition consists first of sentences, or periods; these are subdivided into sections, and these into phrases. [1913 Webster]
{Phrase book}, a book of idiomatic phrases. --J. S. Blackie. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.