n. [ F., fr. L. phrasis diction, phraseology, Gr. &unr_;, fr. &unr_; 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 ] ☞ 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 ]
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