Phrase vs. expression: what’s the difference?
The short answer
A phrase is a specific grammatical term for a group of words functioning as a unit within a sentence, lacking a subject and predicate. An expression is a broader term referring to any way of conveying ideas or feelings, including phrases, idioms, words, or gestures.
What they have in common
Both phrase and expression refer to units of language that convey meaning, often consisting of multiple words.
Examples
phrase
- She learned a new phrase in her English class.
- The phrase ‘breaking the ice’ means to initiate conversation.
- Modifiers in a sentence are often phrases that add detail.
expression
- His expression of gratitude was heartfelt.
- The idiom ‘raining cats and dogs’ is an unusual expression.
- Her puzzled expression showed she didn’t understand.
Which one is more common?
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