Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Paraphrase?

\Par"a*phrase\, n. [L. paraphrasis, Gr. ?, from ? to say the same thing in other words; ? beside + ? to speak: cf. F. paraphrase. See {Para-}, and {Phrase}.] A restatement of a text, passage, or work, expressing the meaning of the original in another form, generally for the sake of its clearer and fuller exposition; a setting forth the signification of a text in other and ampler terms; a free translation or rendering; -- opposed to metaphrase. In paraphrase, or translation with latitude, the author's words are not so strictly followed as his sense. --Dryden. Excellent paraphrases of the Psalms of David. --I. Disraeli. His sermons a living paraphrase upon his practice. --Sowth. The Targums are also called the Chaldaic or Aramaic Paraphrases. --Shipley.
\Par"a*phrase\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Paraphrased}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Paraphrasing}.] To express, interpret, or translate with latitude; to give the meaning of a passage in other language. We are put to construe and paraphrase our own words. --Bp. Stillingfleet.
\Par"a*phrase\, v. i. To make a paraphrase.