Collins Dictionary of Curious Phrases

Title

Collins Dictionary of Curious Phrases

Author

Leslie Dunkling

Type

Non-Fiction

Call Number

423.1 DUN

We often use phrases such as let the “cat out of the bag”, “in a nutshell” and “spill the beans” which are not meant to be taken literally.

If we hear that someone has “kicked the bucket”, for instance, we know that it refers to someone who has died.

In the book, Dunkling explains the origins of these commonly used metaphorical phrases and how they have evolved over the centuries. Also, find out what Dunkling means when he says that these phrases thoroughly justify their role in the English language.

“Stiff upper lip”, “blue stocking”, “hair of the dog” – read this book to learn more of such interesting phrases.

Check if this title is available at Public Libraries via the online catalogue on the National Library Board’s website.

Recommended by Norlin Naim, NLB librarian.