Customer Reviews

The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms

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Drawing on the reputation of Oxford, this authoritative dictionary surveys a English idioms with a British tilt, limiting its usefulness as an American English reference but offering many phrase origins.

This idiom dictionary only lists 5,000-plus entries, a limited scope made smaller for Americans or those studying American English because of the book's emphasis on British English. The dictionary assumes a more convenient trade paperback size, but its shortness makes it less reliable as a reference.

A smaller number of entries allows more room to share notes on the origins of idioms, however. This helps enhance the reader's understanding and retention of the idioms.

The authority and brevity of this idiom dictionary make it more useful to those who already speak English and are looking for a handy reference to satisfy mild curiosity. Students of English as a second language and communications professionals looking for a more complete reference should look elsewhere.

I think this title is a good starter for persons learning a new language. The English language is quite complex and this paperback may help to ease this pain.

If you are trying to learn the U.S. language, idioms, and slang, then there are better options out there for you. Try any of the other major dictionaries and they will work better for you. This one is written more for British-Americans and does not really teach you what you are looking for if you are buying for the purpose of learning about the English language. I hope that is helpful.

Have Fun!

Todd Hagopian

President/CEO

Hagopian Institute

Author of the popular "Quote Junkie" book sereies and the brand new "Idiom Junkie" series

I thought it would be larger, with more entries.

sincerely,

Helena Londres