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(), 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. 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. スポンサード リンク
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