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.
"Convey" the wise it call. "Steal!" foh! a fico for the
phrase.
Shak.
2. A short, pithy expression; especially, one
which is often employed; a peculiar or idiomatic turn of speech; as,
to err is human.
3. A mode or form of speech; the manner or
style in which any one expreses himself; diction; expression.
"Phrases of the hearth." Tennyson.
Thou speak'st
In better phrase and matter than thou didst.
Shak.
4. (Mus.) A short clause or portion of
a period.
&fist; A composition consists first of sentences, or
periods; these are subdivided into sections, and these
into phrases.
Phrase book, a book of idiomatic
phrases. J. S. Blackie.
Phrase, v. t. [imp. & p.
p. Phrased (?); p. pr. & vb. n.
Phrasing.] [Cf. F. phraser.] To express in words,
or in peculiar words; to call; to style. "These suns -- for so
they phrase 'em." Shak.
Phrase, v. i. 1. To
use proper or fine phrases. [R.]
2. (Mus.) To group notes into phrases;
as, he phrases well. See Phrase, n.,
4.
