turn a phrase
Shape words memorably
To turn a phrase is to express something in a particularly apt, elegant, or memorable way.
Someone who can turn a phrase has a gift for wording things effectively: She really knows how to turn a phrase.
The expression often appears with well: a well-turned phrase suggests crafted, polished language.
- articulateExpress clearly, or well-spoken
- eloquentFluent and persuasive
- silver tongueNatural persuasive ability
- expressiveShowing feelings outwardly
- poeticOf or like verse
way with words · epigram · wit · sharp wit · wordplay · play on words · pun · felicitous · lucid · chiasmus · witticism · well-spoken · idiom · bon mot · verbalize · craftsmanship · aphorism · stylistics
communicative directness
turn a phrasespeak plainly
cut to the chase · tell it like it is · not mince words · straightforward · unembellished
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