Word Pronunciation & Dictionary

turn a phrase

Word Rarity Uncommon

Frequency: Zipf frequency 4.26 in modern English

Syllables: turn a phrase
IPA

16

Scrabble Score

11

Letters

1

Syllables

9

Unique Chars

Meaning

verb

To create a particular linguistic expression which is strikingly clear, appropriate, and memorable.

Example Sentences

"Gerard coloured all over at the compliment; but not knowing how to turn a phrase equal to the occasion, asked her if he should resume her picture."
""Ah, how gracefully these wild northern men can turn a phrase!" whispered Chrysophrasia."
"Everyone who was anyone at Long Barton spoke in careful and correct English, but no one ever troubled to turn a phrase."
"Nobody, however, can take issue with Purdy's ability to turn a phrase. He has that rare Joycean knack for illuminating an entire universe with one simple detail."

Inflected Forms

turns a phrase (present, singular) turning a phrase (participle, present) turned a phrase (participle, past) turned a phrase (past)

Phrases

turn of phrase

Frequently Paired Words

turn of phrase

Questions

What does turn a phrase mean?: To create a particular linguistic expression which is strikingly clear, appropriate, and memorable.

How to pronounce turn a phrase

Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “turn a phrase”.
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