phrasing

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "phrasing" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the word "phrasing" when talking about the choice of words or the way someone expresses themselves. For example: "I really like the phrasing of her speech; it was full of emotion and power."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Writing on deadline, Donovan and I clashed frequently: I described our sources as "credible"; he vetoed that phrasing, saying that it suggested The Star was taking their side.

The Guardian - Opinion

From the first moment to the last, Kirkland is absolutely in control, technically speaking, and so free to shape her musical phrasing as she chooses.

The Guardian

Rather than the negative phrasing "do you think this person has been raped?", the question was framed positively: "do you think consent was sought and granted here?" If we had entered the workshop looking for a strict definition of consent that we could apply to our lives, we found no such thing.

The Guardian

"I don't know… 'Get out, you stupid girl'?" she says, phrasing it as a question.

The Guardian

But much hinges on the exact phrasing and whether they would satisfy the Rev Ian Paisley, the DUP's hardline leader.

The Guardian

It was great to see he still has his phrasing and his timing.

The Guardian - Music

But retailers fret that the opaque phrasing of the new law could mean wholesalers are affected as well; that would wipe out more than half of the country's distribution chain.

The Economist

His comment is made, specifically, in the context of the phrasing of the Fed's statement.

The Economist

You just keep thinking: did Lucky Luciano, or any other hood, give Sinatra the voice, the musical taste, the genius for phrasing that turned a three-minute pop song into a story of love, loss, weariness, joy?In other words, if Mozart did it under the table with girls at court, does it matter?

The Economist

But when the Brandenburg Consort, for example, using authentic instruments, accompanied the BBC Singers in choral works by Purcell and Handel, many details of phrasing were virtually inaudible.

The Economist

That annoys those who point to special phrasing that Britain secured in the original text, telling the European Court to pay due regard to a series of parallel "declarations" stating that the charter cannot overturn such things as national labour laws.Among the ratifiers, the biggest complaint is that Britain itself drafted this special phrasing, and yet is now coming back for more.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing text, focus on how the "phrasing" contributes to the overall tone and message.

Common error

Avoid using overly complicated "phrasing" when simpler language would be more effective and clear.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "phrasing" is as a noun, referring to the way something is expressed. As Ludwig's AI explains, it denotes the construction of a statement, influencing style and word choice. The examples demonstrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "phrasing" is a grammatically sound and versatile noun that describes the way something is expressed in words. According to Ludwig, it is frequently used in various contexts, including news, scientific discussions, and formal communications. When using "phrasing", aim for clarity and avoid overly complex language that could obscure your message. Remember to analyze how the "phrasing" affects the overall tone and impact of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

choice of words

Directly refers to the selection of vocabulary.

wording

Focuses on the specific choice of words used.

the way it's expressed

Refers to the overall way in which something is conveyed.

expression

Emphasizes the overall communication of an idea or feeling.

formulation

Highlights the structured way an idea is presented.

articulation

Highlights the clarity and precision of how something is said.

style of writing

Focuses on the characteristic way someone writes.

manner of speaking

Indicates the style and tone of communication.

delivery

Emphasizes how something is presented orally.

way of putting it

A more informal way to refer to someone's phrasing.

FAQs

How is "phrasing" used in writing?

"Phrasing" refers to the way something is expressed in words. Effective "phrasing" can make your writing more impactful and easier to understand.

What are some alternatives to the word "phrasing"?

Alternatives include "wording", "expression", or "articulation", depending on the specific context.

How does "phrasing" affect the meaning of a sentence?

The "phrasing" can significantly alter the meaning and tone of a sentence. Subtle changes in word choice can create different impressions.

What is the difference between "phrasing" and "diction"?

"Phrasing" refers to the arrangement of words to express an idea, while "diction" refers to the choice of words themselves. Good "phrasing" uses strong "diction" to effectively convey a message.