Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Aptly and pleasingly expressed: Used to describe language, especially a phrase or compliment, that is skillfully and elegantly worded.
   • Of a pleasing shape: Used to describe a part of the body, typically a leg or ankle, that is gracefully and attractively formed.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective (Language):

  • The diplomat's speech was full of well-turned compliments that flattered everyone present.
  • She has a gift for crafting well-turned phrases that are both memorable and persuasive.

• Adjective (Physical Form):

  • The dancer was admired for her well-turned ankles.
  • In classical sculpture, artists often emphasized well-turned limbs.

Advanced Usage

• "a well-turned period": A complete, grammatically sound, and rhetorically effective sentence, often found in formal or literary writing.
  • The essay concluded with a well-turned period that summarized the argument perfectly.

Variants and Related Words

• Well-phrased (adj): Expressed in an effective or skillful way. (Focuses more on wording than elegance).
• Well-formed (adj): Correctly shaped or structured. (Can refer to grammar, logic, or physical objects).

Synonyms

• Eloquent: Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.
• Felicitous: Well-chosen or suited to the circumstances, especially of language.
• Shapely: Having an attractive or pleasing shape.

Antonyms

• Awkward: Lacking skill or grace; not elegant.
• Clumsy: Awkward in movement or in expression.
• Graceless: Lacking grace, elegance, or charm.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Turn a phrase: To express something in a particularly skillful or clever way. (This idiom relates directly to the linguistic sense of "well-turned").
  • He has a real talent for turning a phrase.

Adjective

1. (of language) aptly and pleasingly expressed
   • a well-turned phrase
2. of a pleasing shape
   • a well-turned ankle