num_pages: 408
description: The Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms offers a fresh look at the idiomatic phrases and sayings that make English the rich language that it is. The third edition contains entries for over 6000 idioms including 700 entirely new entries based on Oxford's language monitoring programs and thethird edition of the Oxford English Dictionary . These include a range of idioms such as the elephant in the corner go figure step up to the plate a walk in the park and win ugly. Many entries include more detailed background on the idiom in question. For example did you know that'taken aback' was adopted from nautical terminology that described a ship unable to move forward because of a strong headwind pressing its sails back against the mast?The book lists national variants so we learn that while in America they say all over the map in Britain they say all over the shop. This edition also features a greatly increased number of cross-references making it ideal for quick reference. Anyone interested in the colorful side of theEnglish language will have hours of fun browsing this fascinating and informative volume.
language: English
title: Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms
publisher: Oxford University Press