ESL Term:

Lexical Phrase

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lexical phrase: Multi-word chunks of language of varying length that run on a continuum from fixed phrases like in a nutshell to slot- and- filler frames like  the _____er, the _________er. Because lexical phrases are 'pre-assembled' they are very useful for creating fluent communication. They also serve the purpose of organizing dialogue and writing. And in organizing dialogue and writing, they provide cues to the listener/reader about the flow of conversation.

Some examples of lexical phrases:

        The problem with that is . . .

        On the one hand . . ., one the other hand . . .

        What I'm trying to say is . . .

        So what you're saying is . . .

        That's beside the point.