The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms [Paperback]

Jennifer Speake (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 15, 2001 | Series: Oxford Paperback Reference

This unique volume includes 5,000 idioms, alphabetically arranged by key word, covering metaphorical phrases, familiar quotations and proverbs, and similes. The history and date of origin of the idiom is given where possible, and some entries are supported by illustrative quotations as a guide to usage, from both past and present sources. The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms is useful for all native speakers of English, as it focuses on American English and British English, in addition to less common variants. Destined to become a classis among language reference titles, this book is a must for writers and journalists, as well as for all those who have a general interest in the English language.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Jennifer Speake is a freelance writer. She is the co-author of the Concise Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs (3/e 1998), and editor of the Dictionary of Foreign Words and Phrases (1997).

Product Details

• Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA (February 15, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0192801112
• ISBN-13: 978-0192801111
• Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 5.1 x 1.1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,652,086 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must have for your English langauge collection!, August 3, 2005

By 

R. Smith "love2read" (IL, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms (Paperback)

This gem is full of the amazing history of our cultures must common (and often butchered)idioms. We have enjoyed hours of laughter and learning keeping this book at hand. I have even ordered extra copies for gifts!