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Old 21-Jun-2009, 10:08
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Default a turn of phrase

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.
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Old 21-Jun-2009, 10:26
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Default Re: a turn of phrase

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.
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Old 21-Jun-2009, 11:52
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Default Re: a turn of phrase

Can I say "A great phrase" in place of "A great turn of phrase"?
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Old 21-Jun-2009, 12:34
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Default Re: a turn of phrase

Quote:
Originally Posted by Daruma View Post
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.
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