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"Phrase" vs. "expression": what's the difference?
Reviewed and edited by 
Anwar Kareem 24/01/2025, 13:01
Anwar Kareem 24/01/2025, 13:01English.me team member
What is similar?
Both "phrase" and "expression" refer to units of language that convey meaning, often consisting of multiple words.
What is different?
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.
Which one is more common?
Examples of usage
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.
- His expression of gratitude was heartfelt.
- The idiom "raining cats and dogs" is an unusual expression.
- Her puzzled expression showed she didn't understand.
Difference
