Paraphrase

Rewording a text while preserving its meaning

1 min read

Why this is trending

Interest in “Paraphrase” spiked on Wikipedia on 2026-02-25.

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2026-01-27Peak: 2652026-02-25

30-day total: 5,422

Key Takeaways

A paraphrase ( ) or rephrase is a rewording of a text that retains the original meaning.
It involves expressing the same concepts as the original text in a new way.
The term comes from the Latin paraphrasis , from Ancient Greek παράφρασις ( paráphrasis ) ' additional manner of expression ' .
History Although paraphrases likely abounded in oral traditions, it dates back to at least Roman times, when Quintilian suggested it as a language exercise for students.
The study of paraphrasing has gained significance due to issues surrounding plagiarism and the importance of original authorship.

A paraphrase () or rephrase is a rewording of a text that retains the original meaning. Paraphrasing can enhance clarity and effectiveness in conveying ideas. It involves expressing the same concepts as the original text in a new way. For example, when someone tells a story they have heard, they paraphrase it in their own words while preserving the meaning. The term comes from the Latin paraphrasis, from Ancient Greek παράφρασις (paráphrasis) 'additional manner of expression'. The act of paraphrasing is also called paraphrasis.

History

Although paraphrases likely abounded in oral traditions, it dates back to at least Roman times, when Quintilian suggested it as a language exercise for students. This practice continued in the Middle Ages, with figures such as Geoffrey of Vinsauf incorporating paraphrasing into educational exercises to enhance students' language skills. The study of paraphrasing has gained significance due to issues surrounding plagiarism and the importance of original authorship.