Vocabulary word Paraphrase - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

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Dictionary Definition of paraphrase

To restate or rephrase a statement or text in a way that conveys the same meaning but in different words.
"The reporter had to paraphrase the statement to make it suitable for publication."

Detailed Meaning of Paraphrase

This is often done in order to clarify or simplify the original statement or to provide a different perspective on the information. Paraphrasing involves understanding the original text or statement and then expressing it in one's own words, using different sentence structures and vocabulary, while maintaining the original meaning. The purpose of paraphrasing can be to summarize a longer text, to avoid plagiarism by using one's own words, or to make information more accessible to a specific audience. It is a useful skill in many fields, including writing, research, and communication. Effective paraphrasing requires good language skills, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of the content being paraphrased.

Example Sentences for Paraphrase

1. The teacher asked the student to paraphrase the passage in their own words.
2. The writer had to paraphrase the source material to avoid plagiarism.
3. The speaker asked the audience to paraphrase his main points.
4. The student tried to paraphrase the question to better understand it.
5. The translator had to paraphrase the text to make it sound more natural in the target language.
6. The interpreter had to paraphrase the speaker's words to ensure accuracy.

Origin and Etymology of Paraphrase

The verb 'paraphrase' has its roots in both Greek and Latin. Its etymology can be traced back to the Greek word 'paráphrasis,' which combines 'para,' meaning 'beside' or 'alongside,' and 'phrasis,' meaning 'expression' or 'phrase.' This combination emphasizes the idea of expressing something in a manner that is parallel or alongside the original text, conveying the same meaning but with different words or a different structure. In Latin, this concept was further refined into 'paraphrasis,' and it eventually made its way into English as 'paraphrase.' Thus, the etymology of 'paraphrase' encapsulates the act of restating or rephrasing a statement or text while staying true to its core meaning but using alternative linguistic expressions.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb paraphrase:

reword

quote

copy

replicate

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Paraphrase

1. The researcher had to paraphrase the findings to make them more easily understandable.
2. The author had to paraphrase the poem to fit the rhyme scheme.
3. The editor asked the writer to paraphrase the sentence to make it more concise.
4. The teacher asked the student to paraphrase the definition.
5. The lawyer had to paraphrase the witness' testimony to make it admissible in court.
6. She requested that I paraphrase the intricate scientific article.
7. The goal of the assignment is to accurately paraphrase the passage.
8. The professor emphasized the importance of learning to paraphrase.
9. To enhance clarity, it's crucial to paraphrase complex concepts.
10. The editor's task is to skillfully paraphrase the author's prose.
11. Can you paraphrase this legal document for a layperson to understand?
12. Paraphrasing requires more than just changing a few words.
13. In literature, authors often paraphrase classic themes and tales.
14. He needed to paraphrase the historical text for a modern audience.
15. Students are encouraged to paraphrase rather than copy verbatim.
16. The translator's job is to faithfully paraphrase the original text.
17. The journalist had to quickly paraphrase the breaking news story.
18. The committee asked him to paraphrase the proposal for clarity.
19. Effective communication often involves the skill to paraphrase.
20. The diplomat had to diplomatically paraphrase sensitive remarks.
21. Scientists must accurately paraphrase complex research findings.
22. Teachers teach students to paraphrase to enhance comprehension.
23. The writer's task is to elegantly paraphrase the poetic verses.
24. She had to paraphrase the technical jargon for a general audience.
25. Lawyers often need to paraphrase intricate legal documents.