original phrasing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "original phrasing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the specific wording or expression that was initially used in a text or speech. Example: "The author decided to keep the original phrasing of the quote to maintain its impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The original phrasing was 'set upon six and seven'.

The Guardian - Sport

Elsewhere, though, Erdrich's unbridled urgency yields startlingly original phrasing ("the christbirthing pinecone air") as well as flashes of blinding lucidity.

The New York Times - Books

Thus, inadvertently, Jefferson's original phrasing ideas were preserved as blank spaces that are apparent on all the surviving broadsides.

The New York Times - Arts

In fact, she had simply asked for a motion to be reworded because she felt its original phrasing could be used to target Muslims generally.

The Guardian - Opinion

Finally, as he points out, this new edition hardly wipes the unexpurgated Twain off the literary map:...literally dozens of other editions are available for those readers who prefer Twain's original phrasing.

The Economist

On Twitter, Goldberg responded to the criticism, acknowledging that she had made a "serious, mortifying mistake" in her original phrasing and adding, "This whole thing is turning into a round robin of fuckups".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

If it sounds loaded, your original phrase probably is, too.

The New Yorker

Each clue is missing one word from the original phrase.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The original phrase was a bit redundant anyway.

The New York Times - Style

So much so, in fact, that someone not known for coining original phrases dubbed it The Last Hurrah.

The New York Times

If you would like to see the original phrases and how they were changed, please click here.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing texts, compare the "original phrasing" with later revisions to understand the author's intent and the evolution of their ideas.

Common error

Don't automatically assume that the "original phrasing" is superior. Sometimes, revisions and edits improve clarity, accuracy, and impact. Always evaluate phrasing in context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "original phrasing" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. As Ludwig indicates, it refers to the specific words and their arrangement in the initial version of something. The Ludwig examples illustrate its use in discussing revisions, interpretations, and preservation of initial wording.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "original phrasing" is a common and grammatically sound term used to refer to the initial wording of a text or statement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general discussions. While alternatives like "initial wording" or "source text" exist, "original phrasing" specifically emphasizes the arrangement and style of the words used at the outset. When analyzing or revising texts, comparing the "original phrasing" with later versions helps reveal changes in intent and impact. It is also useful to understand in which contexts the author can or cannot diverge from the original one.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial wording

Focuses on the specific words used at the beginning.

original wording

A more general term for the initial set of words.

initial phrasing

Similar to "original phrasing", but can also refer to the manner of expression.

source text

Implies the existence of text which is a base for other transformations.

original text

Refers to the initial wording, often in a historical or source document context.

primary formulation

Emphasizes the act of formulating or expressing something for the first time.

first draft

Related to initial work but in the context of multiple versions.

unrevised text

Indicates the text has not undergone any changes or edits.

untouched wording

Stresses the fact that the words have not been altered.

preliminary version

Emphasizes that this is the first version and is subject to change.

FAQs

How can I use "original phrasing" in a sentence?

You can use "original phrasing" to refer to the initial wording of a text or statement. For example: "The editor decided to retain the author's "original phrasing" to preserve their unique voice."

What's the difference between "original phrasing" and "initial wording"?

"Original phrasing" and "initial wording" are very similar. "Original phrasing" might slightly emphasize the specific arrangement and style of the words, whereas "initial wording" simply refers to the words that were first used.

Is "original phrasing" formal or informal?

"Original phrasing" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's a neutral term that can be used in academic papers, news articles, or casual conversations.

When should I consider changing the "original phrasing" of a quote?

You might consider changing the "original phrasing" of a quote if it contains errors, is unclear, or doesn't fit the context of your writing. However, always indicate any alterations you've made to avoid misrepresentation.