turn of phrase

Other forms: turns of phrase

A turn of phrase is a way of expressing something, in writing or speech, that stands out in some particular way. If you say you're "jumping out of your skin," you're using a familiar turn of phrase.

You might describe a poet or songwriter as using an elegant or graceful turn of phrase — you mean that she has a way with words. And you probably won't ask your friend known for his awkward turns of phrase to give a speech at your wedding. The first known use of this phrase was in 1779 by Benjamin Franklin. Experts guess that its origin lies in the sense of words being "turned" like wood on a lathe.

Definitions of turn of phrase

1. noun

   a distinctive spoken or written expression
   “John's succinct turn of phrase persuaded her that it would not be a good idea”

   synonyms: turn of expression

   types:

   conceit

   a witty or ingenious turn of phrase

   type of:

   expressive style, style

   a way of expressing something (in language or art or music etc.) that is characteristic of a particular person or group of people or period