Dictionary Of Idioms And Their Origins

The English language contains a great store of idioms that can be used in creative and forceful ways. This book examines over 400 phrases, tracing each one's source and history through a supply of examples.

This dictionary traces the origins and histories of over 400 proverbs, detailing the changes of meaning and usage that have occurred throughout each proverb's life and offering literary examples dating back over 2000 years.

What is it to 'cock a snook', where is the land of Nod, and who was first to go the extra mile? Find the answers to these questions (and many more!) in the new edition of the Oxford Dictionary of Idioms. This dictionary uncovers the meanings of myriad phrases and sayings that are used daily in the English language, encompassing more than 10,000 figurative expressions, similes, sayings, and proverbs. More than 400 idioms have been added to this new edition, and comprise recently coined and common sayings alike. New additions include 'back of the net', 'drag and drop', 'go it alone', 'how come?', 'if you ask me', 'make your skin crawl', and 'woe betide'. Illustrative quotations sourced from the Oxford corpora give contextual examples of the idioms and their standard usage, and many entries include background information on the origins of the idiom in question. An updated thematic index makes for easy navigation, and anyone who is interested in the origins and diversity of English vernacular will have hours of fun browsing this fascinating dictionary.

Did you know that 'flavour of the month' originated in a marketing campaign in American ice-cream parlours in the 1940s, when a particular flavour would be specially promoted for a month at a time? And did you know that 'off the cuff' refers to the rather messy practice of writing impromptu notes on one's shirt cuff before speaking in public? These and many more idioms are explained and put into context in this second edition of the Oxford Dictionary of Idioms. This vastly entertaining dictionary takes a fresh look at the idiomatic phrases and sayings that make English such a rich and intriguing language. A major new edition, it contains entries for over 5000 idioms, including 350 new entries and over 500 new quotations. The text has been updated to include many new idioms using the findings of the Oxford English Reading Programme, the biggest language research programme in the world. The entries are supported by a wealth of illustrative quotations from a wide range of sources and periods. For example: 'Rowling has not been asleep at the wheel in the three years since the last Potter novel, and I am pleased to report that she has not confused sheer length with inspiration.' - Guardian, 2003. 'I made the speech of a lifetime. I had them tearing up the seats and rolling in the aisles.' - P.G. Woodhouse, 1940. Many entries include boxed features which give more detailed background on the idiom in question. For example, did you know that 'taken aback' was adopted from nautical terminology, and described a ship unable to move forward because of a strong headwind pressing its sails back against the mast? The text has been entirely redesigned so that it is both elegant and easy to use. Anyone interested in the quirky side of the English language will have hours of fun browsing through this fascinating and informative volume.

Learn the language of Nebraska . . .and 49 other states With more entries than any other reference of its kind,McGraw-Hill’s Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs shows you how American English is spoken today. You will find commonly used phrasal verbs, idiomatic expressions, proverbial expressions, and clichés. The dictionary contains more than 24,000 entries, each defined and followed by one or two example sentences. It also includes a Phrase-Finder Index with more than 60,000 entries.

“It rained cats and dogs”, “I know where his shoe pinches”, “Yes, it was really a blessing in disguise”… These idioms are often used in common language in our day to day talk or even correspondence. Their usage makes the communication and message to be conveyed quite effective. Dictionary defines idiom as “a group of words whose meaning is different from the meaning of the individual words.” Idiom is a combination of words with figurative meanings. It often creates a picturesque image and that image conveys the meaning. For e.g. ‘where the shoe pinches’ the image automatically creates the image of pain and trouble and the place where there is trouble. Similarly, ‘add fuel to the fire’—it creates the image of fire blazing more and the meaning of aggravation comes out. The following example is widely employed to illustrate the point. Dictionary of Idioms by Mahesh Sharma: "Dictionary of Idioms: Unlocking the Meanings Behind Expressions" by Mahesh Sharma is a comprehensive reference guide that explores the world of idiomatic expressions. This dictionary provides explanations and interpretations of common idioms used in the English language, offering readers a deeper understanding of their meanings, origins, and usage. It serves as a valuable resource for students, language enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enhance their knowledge of idiomatic expressions. Key Aspects of the Book "Dictionary of Idioms: Unlocking the Meanings Behind Expressions": Extensive Collection: "Dictionary of Idioms" contains an extensive collection of idiomatic expressions commonly used in the English language. It covers a wide range of idioms, from everyday phrases to more specialized expressions, enabling readers to expand their vocabulary and grasp the nuances of idiomatic language. Meaning and Origins: The book provides detailed explanations of the meanings and origins of each idiom, shedding light on their historical context and usage. It helps readers understand the figurative nature of idiomatic expressions and how they contribute to effective communication. Usage and Examples: Along with explanations, the dictionary offers usage guidance and illustrative examples to demonstrate the proper context and application of idiomatic expressions. This enhances readers' comprehension and enables them to use idioms appropriately in spoken and written communication. Mahesh Sharma, a language enthusiast and expert in idiomatic expressions, presents the "Dictionary of Idioms: Unlocking the Meanings Behind Expressions" as a comprehensive resource for understanding idiomatic language. With a passion for linguistics and a deep knowledge of idiomatic expressions, Sharma offers readers valuable insights into the meanings and origins of common idioms. His book serves as a guide to unraveling the complexities of idiomatic language and enriching one's communication skills. "Dictionary of Idioms" is an indispensable tool for language learners, writers, and anyone seeking to enhance their understanding and usage of idiomatic expressions in the English language.