A Dictionary of Euphemisms (Oxford Paperback Reference)

by R.W.Holder (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  1997

  $3.25

  Investigating the human tendency to prefer mild, vague or roundabout expressions rather than use words which are blunt, precise, and disagreeably true, this book unmasks the language of prudery, evasion, and deceit, while showing how not to say what you really mean. Why else do people say bijou , 'house of ill repute , and corporate entertainment , when what they really mean is inconveniently small , brothel , and bribery ? A survey of our linguistic idiosyncracies, the dictionary includes thousands of definitions, quotations, derivations, and historical explanations and a thematic index for quick and easy reference.

• Used

  Paperback
  2003

  $3.25

  Now in paperback, this brand new edition of A Dictionary of Euphemisms: How Not To Say What You Mean is still as lively a guide to the language of evasion, hypocrisy, prudery, and deceit as you could wish for. Packed full of the old favourites, such as 'early bath' or 'push up the daisies', as well as euphemisms from modern times, like 'human sacrifice', 'coffee-housing', and 'tuft-hunter'. Definitions include examples from literature and the press, along with historical explanations of origins, and now obsolete euphemisms like 'leaping house', 'nightingale' are signposted as such. And to prove that the use of euphemisms is not just a British speciality, there is widespread coverage of American euphemisms too: 'English' (pertaining to sexual deviance), 'watermelon' (an indication of pregnancy).

• Used

  Hardcover
  1996

  $3.25

  The result of a lifetime's reading and fascination with the art of not saying what you mean, this dictionary offers a dissection of the human tendency to use mild, vague or roundabout expressions rather than words which are blunt, precise, and disagreeably true. Its thousands of hugely entertaining entries range from the long-established, such as everlasting life and the Grim Reaper (death), powder room , and house of ill repute , to recent coinages including odorously challenged (smelly), corporate entertainment (bribery), AMW - actress, model, whatever (prostitute), and educational welfare manager (truancy officer). Providing widespread coverage of both British and American euphemisms, the Dictionary gives definitions, examples from real authors, and historical explanations. It is a browser's delight and an essential reference book. This book is intended for general trade; humour/language interest.