tournure

turn, shape, form

noun toor-NYOOR Rare

Origin: French tourner (to turn)

Also means

turn of phrase

Usage Note

Tournure refers to the way something is shaped or developing — la tournure des événements (the turn of events). In language, tournure de phrase means a particular turn of phrase or construction. It is also a historical fashion term for a bustle (the frame worn under a skirt to give shape at the back).

Examples

"La tournure des événements nous a surpris."

Natural Translation

The turn of events surprised us.

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