Phrase

usgb/freɪz/
noun

A group of words that work together and express an idea.

Good morning is a common phrase in English.
Visual representation of "phrase" - A group of words that work together and express an idea.

Often appears as...

  • catch phrase
  • turn of phrase
Definition 1 of 4
Visual representation of "phrase"
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Not a Sentence

A phrase is different from a sentence because it doesn't have a subject and verb that express a complete thought.

Illustration for Not a Sentence
'Under the weather' is a phrase, not a full sentence.
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Collocations Matter

Pay attention to words often used together; these established combinations can change a phrase's meaning.

Illustration for Collocations Matter
The phrase 'break out' changes meaning in the collocation 'break out in song'.
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Common Phrases

Common phrases, like idioms, might not make sense literally, so focus on their implied meanings in context.

Illustration for Common Phrases
The phrase 'piece of cake' actually means something very easy to do.
Visual representation of the word "Phrase"

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