paraphrase

[ par-uh-freyz ]

noun

1. a restatement of a text or passage giving the meaning in another form, as for clearness; rewording.
2. the act or process of restating or rewording.

verb (used with object)

, par·a·phrased, par·a·phras·ing.

1. to render the meaning of in a paraphrase:

   to paraphrase a technical paper for lay readers.

   Synonyms: explain, summarize

verb (used without object)

, par·a·phrased, par·a·phras·ing.

1. to make a paraphrase or paraphrases.

paraphrase

/ ˈpærəˌfreɪz; ˌpærəˈfræstɪk /

noun

1. an expression of a statement or text in other words, esp in order to clarify
2. the practice of making paraphrases

verb

1. to put (something) into other words; restate (something)

paraphrase

1. A restatement of speech or writing that retains the basic meaning while changing the words. A paraphrase often clarifies the original statement by putting it into words that are more easily understood.

Derived Forms

• paraphrastic, adjective

Other Words From

• para·phrasa·ble adjective
• para·phraser noun
• mis·para·phrase verb misparaphrased misparaphrasing
• un·para·phrased adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of paraphrase¹

First recorded in 1540–50; from Middle French, from Latin paraphrasis, from Greek paráphrasis; para- ¹ + phrase

Word History and Origins

Origin of paraphrase¹

C16: via French from Latin paraphrasis, from Greek, from paraphrazein to recount

Synonym Study

See translation.

Example Sentences

Ultimately, the Democrats, to paraphrase Walsh, need to look inward.

From Salon

To paraphrase Democratic operative James Carville, it’s about identity, stupid.

From Los Angeles Times

Or, to paraphrase President Biden: Don’t compare her to the almighty.

From Los Angeles Times

To paraphrase an old baseball joke, the Dodgers are 25 guys who want to fit into one Uber, while L.A. remains a city of neighborhoods that each rides in its own car while not even knowing that others exist.

From Los Angeles Times

To paraphrase F. Scott Fitzgerald, I guess the rich drink different from you and me — and Sacramento is helping them tipple it up.

From Los Angeles Times