The origins of over 3,000 words and phrases uncovered Almost 20 feature panels on expressions from other languages Draws on Oxford's unrivalled dictionary research and language monitoring An extended introduction on the history of the English language Authority matched with accessibility. Combining both accessibility and authority, The Insect That Stole Butter? describes the origins anddevelopment of over 3,000 words and phrases in the English language. The bookdraws on Oxford's unrivalled dictionary research programme and language monitoring, and relates the fascinating stories behind many of our most curious terms and expressions in order to offer the reader a much more explicit account than can be found in a general English dictionary. Organized A-Z, the entries include first known use along with examples that illustrate the many faces of the particular word or phrase, from 'handsome' to 'bachelor' and 'cute' to 'baby', from 'pagan' to 'palaver' and 'toff' to 'torpedo'. Also featured are almost 20 special panels that cover expressions common in English but drawn from other languages, such as 'coffee', 'sugar', and 'candy' from Arabic or 'booze', 'brandy', and 'gin' (Dutch).
- ISBN: 978-0-19-954792-0
- Editorial: Oxford University
- Encuadernacion: Cartoné
- Páginas: 512
- Fecha Publicación: 01/10/2009
- Nº Volúmenes: 1
- Idioma: Inglés