phrase: a group of one or more words words which function together as a unit, but which (normally) cannot function independently as a sentence. Sometimes phrases, like clauses, are marked by the use of (square) brackets [2]. For example, [the mountains [across the river]] is a nominal (noun) phrase, and it contains within it a prepositional phrase, [across the river]. Contrast clause; see also head, complement, modifier. [Spanish: frase]