Par"a*phrase (păr"&adot;*frāz), n. [L. paraphrasis, Gr. para`frasis, from parafra`zein to say the same thing in other words; para` beside + fra`zein to speak: cf. F. paraphrase. See Para-, and Phrase.] A restatement of a text, passage, or work, expressing the meaning of the original in another form, generally for the sake of its clearer and fuller exposition; a setting forth the signification of a text in other and ampler terms; a free translation or rendering; -- opposed to metaphrase.

In paraphrase, or translation with latitude, the author's words are not so strictly followed as his sense.

Excellent paraphrases of the Psalms of David.

His sermons a living paraphrase upon his practice.

The Targums are also called the Chaldaic or Aramaic Paraphrases.

Par"a*phrase, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Paraphrased (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Paraphrasing (?).] To express, interpret, or translate with latitude; to give the meaning of a passage in other language.

We are put to construe and paraphrase our own words.

Par"a*phrase, v. i. To make a paraphrase.

• a restatement of a text in different words, often to clarify meaning
  
• a similar restatement as an educational exercise
  
• to restate something as, or to compose a paraphrase