metaphrase
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈmɛtəˌfreɪz/
KK: /mɛtəˌfreɪz/
noun
Definition
A type of translation that conveys the exact words and structure of the original text without changing its meaning.
Example
The translator provided a metaphrase of the poem, keeping the original wording intact.
Conversation
Have you ever heard of a metaphrase?
Yeah, it's like a word-for-word translation, right?
Exactly! I was trying to find a good example of a metaphrase yesterday.
Those can be tricky, but they really help in understanding the text.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
translation
rendering
version
Antonyms
paraphrase
summary
interpretation
transitive verb
Definition
To translate or rewrite a text in a way that keeps the original meaning but changes the wording, often literally.
Example
The scholar decided to metaphrase the ancient text to make its meaning clearer.
Tense Forms
Past: metaphrased
Past Participle: metaphrased
Conversation
Have you ever tried to metaphrase a poem you really like?
No, I haven't, but that sounds interesting!
It's a unique way to understand the deeper meaning, I think.
Root Explanation
Metaphrase is formed from "meta-" (meaning beyond or change) and "phrasis" (from Greek "phrasis", meaning speech or expression). The word refers to a translation that goes beyond the literal meaning to convey the essence of the original expression.
Memory Tip
Think of 'meta-' meaning 'beyond' and 'phrasis' meaning 'speech' — this helps you remember that a metaphrase is a translation that captures the essence beyond just the words.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.