How Do You Spell PERIPHRASE?

Pronunciation: [pəɹˈɪfɹe͡ɪz] (IPA)

Periphrase is a term used to describe a linguistic device that uses multiple words to convey an idea that could be expressed in a single word. The spelling of this word can be confusing due to its unusual combination of letters. The IPA phonetic transcription for Periphrase is /pərəfɹeɪz/, which breaks the word down into its individual sounds. The first syllable "pər" is pronounced like "pur", followed by "əf" which represents the "uh" sound, "ɹ" which is "r", "eɪ" which is "ay", and finally "z" for the "z" sound at the end of the word.

PERIPHRASE Meaning and Definition

1. Periphrase refers to a linguistic device or figure of speech involving the use of excessive and unnecessary words or phrases to express an idea or describe something which could otherwise be conveyed in a shorter or more concise manner. It is often employed to embellish or amplify the meaning of a statement, adding additional detail or providing a more elaborate description.

   The term periphrase originates from the Greek words "peri" meaning "around" and "phrasis" meaning "expression" or "speech". It is commonly used in both written and spoken language, particularly in literature and poetry, to enhance the beauty and elegance of the writing. By using elaborate descriptions and redundant words, periphrase creates a certain rhetorical effect, such as emphasizing the importance of a statement or creating a vivid image in the reader's mind.

   However, periphrase can also be regarded as a form of circumlocution or verbosity, as it tends to add unnecessary complexity to the original message. Sometimes, periphrase is used as a deliberate technique to evoke a certain emotion or create suspense. In other cases, it can be unintentional and may stem from a writer or speaker's inclination towards verbosity.

   Overall, periphrase is a linguistic device that involves the use of excessive words or phrases to express an idea. It adds complexity and embellishment to the language, serving both a decorative and expressive purpose.

2. • The use of more words than necessary to express an idea; circumlocution.

   • To express the sense of one word by means of several.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PERIPHRASE

• pariphrase
• oeriphrase
• leriphrase
• -eriphrase
• 0eriphrase
• pwriphrase
• psriphrase
• pdriphrase
• prriphrase
• p4riphrase
• p3riphrase
• peeiphrase
• pediphrase
• pefiphrase
• petiphrase
• pe5iphrase
• pe4iphrase
• peruphrase
• perjphrase
• perkphrase

Etymology of PERIPHRASE

The word "periphrase" originates from the Greek word "periphrasis", which is formed by combining the prefix "peri-" (meaning "around" or "about") and the noun "phrasis" (meaning "expression" or "speech"). In Greek, "peri-" is a preposition indicating movement or location around something, while "phrasis" means a particular mode of speaking or expressing something. Thus, the combination "periphrasis" implies the act of expressing or speaking in a roundabout or circumlocutory manner. The term later entered the English language in the early 17th century.