phrase vs turn of phrase

phrase

noun
  • A word or, more commonly, a group of words that functions as a single unit in the syntax of a sentence, usually consisting of a head, or central word, and elaborating words. 

  • A small section of music in a larger piece. 

  • A short written or spoken expression. 

  • A short individual motion forming part of a choreographed dance. 

verb
  • To perform a passage with the correct phrasing. 

  • To express (an action, thought or idea) by means of particular words. 

  • To divide into melodic phrases. 

turn of phrase

noun
  • An expression which is worded in a distinctive way, especially one which is particularly memorable or artful. 

How often have the words phrase and turn of phrase occurred in a corpus of books? (source: Google Ngram Viewer )