Curious English Words and Phrases: The Truth Behind the Expressions We Use

Front Cover
Exisle Publishing, 2012 - Language Arts & Disciplines - 432 pages
Have you ever wondered where terms like 'end of your tether', 'gets my goat' or 'letting ones hair down' come from? Or why we call some people 'geezers', 'sugar daddies' or 'lounge lizards'? Or where the words 'eavesdropping', 'nickname' and 'D-Day' come from?They are just a few of the many words and phrases that language expert Max Cryer examines in this fact-filled and fun new book. Max explains where these curious expressions come from, what they mean and how they are used. Along the way he tells a host of colourful anecdotes and dispels quite a few myths Did Churchill originate the phrase 'black dog'? And if 'ivory tower' can be found in the Bible, why has its meaning changed so drastically?'Curious English Words and Phrases' is a treasure trove for lovers of language. Informative, amusing and value for money, this book is 'the real McCoy'. From 'couch potato' to 'Bob's your uncle', you'll find the explanation here!
 

Contents

Section 1
7
Section 2
25
Section 3
64
Section 4
133
Section 5
162
Section 6
187
Section 7
220
Section 8
312
Section 9
400
Section 10
421
Section 11
424
Section 12
428
Copyright

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About the author (2012)

Max Cryer is a seasoned researcher and writer on aspects of the English language. A well-known broadcaster and entertainer, he hosts a weekly radio slot on the subject. In a long career, he has been a schoolteacher, a compere and TV host, as well as a singer in London, Las Vegas and Hollywood. Max is the author of 'Love Me Tender', 'Who Said That First?', 'The Godzone Dictionary', 'Hear Our Voices, We Entreat', 'Preposterous Proverbs' and 'Every Dog Has It's Day'.

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