What it means
A distinctive, catchy, or clever way of putting something, basically your little bit of verbal seasoning. A good turn of phrase makes an ordinary sentence stick, whether it’s poetic, brutal, or just bang on. It’s not really slang, more a slightly posh way to big up someone’s wording. You’ll hear it in book chats, office waffle, and pub praise alike.
Usage examples
"Our manager called the pay freeze a team-building pause. Mate, that’s a turn of phrase worthy of a dodgy politician and a Tesco meal deal."
"She has a lovely turn of phrase, every sentence sparkles."
"That's a funny turn of phrase, I've never heard it put that way."
Where it comes from
A turn of phrase is the particular turn or twist you give your words, the neat way you phrase a thought. A good one lands like a small flourish of verbal style.
Editors of this term
Your vote counts
Is this real street talk or have we lost the plot? Cast your vote.