phase noun
ADJ. early, first, initial, primary | second, secondary, etc. | current, latest, new, present | final, last | intermediate, transition | temporary | critical, crucial, important the critical phase of the operation | distinct The period can be divided into three distinct phases.
VERB + PHASE begin, enter, open, start Society has entered a technological phase of evolution. | go through It's just a phase he's going through. | complete, pass
PREP. during a/the ~ During the first phase of expansion staff will move to the new offices. | in a/the ~ In the earliest phase of mental disorder, relatives feel confused. | ~ in a new phase in the European economy
You can also check other dicts: phase (English, 中文解释 ), wordnet sense, Collins Definition