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Interesting Stories about Curious Words: From Stealing Thunder to Red Herrings (Paperback)
Susie Dent (author)Published: 10/10/2024
The doyenne of Dictionary Corner returns with another lexicographical marvel that unearths the etymologies of well-known phrases and sayings to hugely entertaining effect.
Join Susie Dent, lexicographer extraordinaire and Queen of Countdown's Dictionary Corner, on a curious and exceedingly interesting adventure through all the very best RED HERRINGS, COCK AND BULL STORIES and NINE-DAY WONDERS in the English language.
Who was SWEET FANNY ADAMS?
What's the dramatic true story behind STEALING THUNDER?
Why is it CHANCING YOUR ARM when you take a risk?
What do bears have to do with LICKING INTO SHAPE?
Or robbers with PULLING SOMEONE'S LEG?
Why are CIRCLES VICIOUS?
And, what's so bad about a WHITE ELEPHANT?
Publisher: John Murray Press
ISBN: 9781399811682
Number of pages: 432
Weight: 350 g
Dimensions: 196 x 126 x 32 mm
MEDIA REVIEWS
Susie Dent is a one-off. She breathes life and fun into words and language - Pam Ayres
Susie Dent is a national treasure - Richard Osman
With this book, readers won't be lost for words: we'll be happily lost within them - Irish Sunday Business Post
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“A magical read!”
This is the first book I’ve read of Susie Dent’s and I could not put it down! A really fascinating read full of fun facts. It’s made me think again about many well known phrases.
“Not every phrase has its origin”
An interesting read but a number of the words and phrases don't have an origin. It was the origin of phrases that interests me.
That said it's a very easy bedtime pick to help you unwind
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