Holophrastic

usgb/ˌhəʊləˈfræstɪk,ˌhɑːləˈfræstɪk/
adjective

Related to a single phrase expressing a complete idea or statement.

Young children often use holophrastic speech, like 'up' to express the idea 'Pick me up.'
Visual representation of "holophrastic" - Related to a single phrase expressing a complete idea or statement

Often appears as...

  • holophrastic speech
  • holophrastic phrase

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "holophrastic"
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Child Language

Holophrastic often describes how toddlers begin to speak, using single words for full ideas.

Illustration for Child Language
A toddler saying 'milk' instead of 'I want milk' is using holophrastic speech.
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Expressing Needs

Holophrastic words can be effective for quickly expressing needs or desires.

Illustration for Expressing Needs
A lost tourist simply saying 'map?' is an example of holophrastic speech.
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Simply Put

Holophrastic speech simplifies communication, making it brief yet whole.

Illustration for Simply Put
An employee saying 'break' to indicate they are taking a break is holophrastic.
Visual representation of the word "Holophrastic"

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