paraphrase
Paraphrase (noun) means a restatement of a passage or idea in different words, usually to make it clearer or shorter. Example: “The textbook offers a paraphrase of the original Latin text.”
How to use paraphrase
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSaying the same thing someone else said, but using your own words instead of quoting them directly.
Paraphrasing still requires crediting the original source — changing the words doesn't remove the need for citation.
Word forms
paraphrased past tense, paraphrases plural, paraphrases singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The textbook offers a _____ of the original Latin text.
Etymology
From Middle French paraphrase, ultimately from Greek paraphrasis, "a telling in other words" (para- "beside" + phrazein "to tell").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for paraphrase
See all rhymes for paraphrase →Frequently asked questions
What does “paraphrase” mean?
The word “paraphrase” means a restatement of a passage or idea in different words, usually to make it clearer or shorter. In plain terms, saying the same thing someone else said, but using your own words instead of quoting them directly.
How do you pronounce “paraphrase”?
“Paraphrase” is pronounced PA-ruhf-rayz (/ˈpæɹəfɹeɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “paraphrase” in a sentence?
Here is “paraphrase” used in a sentence: “The textbook offers a paraphrase of the original Latin text.”
What part of speech is “paraphrase”?
Depending on how it is used, “paraphrase” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “paraphrase” come from?
The word “paraphrase” comes from Middle French. From Middle French paraphrase, ultimately from Greek paraphrasis, "a telling in other words" (para- "beside" + phrazein "to tell").
How many meanings does “paraphrase” have?
“Paraphrase” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a restatement of a passage or idea in different words, usually to make it clearer or shorter.