a turn of phrase

[Daruma]

Hello.

Cambridge Dictionaries Online - Cambridge University Press
a turn of phrase
a way of saying something
'Significant other', meaning 'partner', now that's an interesting turn of phrase.

Jack McCallum: May Madness - Jack McCallum - SI.com
"In his good games," Lakers forward Lamar Odom observed of Paul before the playoffs, "he brings everybody along with him." A great turn of phrase.

Can I say "A great phrase" in place of "A great turn of phrase"?

Thank you.

[apex2000]

That would be saying you are in a position to judge the quality of the phrase which is not what is intended.
A great turn of phrase is a colloquial way of expressing a person's appreciation of the description employed.

[Daruma]

Can I say "A great phrase" in place of "A great turn of phrase"?

[apex2000]

Can I say "A great phrase" in place of "A great turn of phrase"?

Not in the sentence quoted; see my previous answer.
You can express your opinion about another phrase by suggesting that it is a great phrase, but in the context given 'turn' is correct.