What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
phrase
Example
The phrase 'break a leg' is often used to wish someone good luck. [phrase: noun]
Example
She used the phrase 'it's raining cats and dogs' to describe the heavy rain. [phrase: noun]
proverb
Example
The proverb 'actions speak louder than words' means that what people do is more important than what they say. [proverb: noun]
Example
He quoted the proverb 'where there's smoke, there's fire' to suggest that rumors often have some truth to them. [proverb: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Phrase is more commonly used than proverb in everyday language. Phrase is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while proverb is less common and often used in literature, speeches, or formal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between phrase and proverb?
While phrase is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, proverb is often used in formal contexts and can add a touch of wisdom or authority to a speech or piece of writing.
