McGraw-Hill's Essential American Idioms Dictionary

McGraw-Hill's Essential American Idioms Dictionary contains over 2,500 common idioms used in American English. The entries are arranged alphabetically and include definitions, example sentences, and notes on usage. Each idiom is presented with multiple real-world examples showing how it is used in conversation and writing. The dictionary provides clear explanations of the literal and figurative meanings, along with information about the formality level and any variations in usage. The guide includes special sections on idioms related to specific topics like business, emotions, and daily life. Cultural and historical background information helps readers understand the origins and evolution of certain expressions. This reference work serves as a practical tool for English language learners while documenting the creative and metaphorical nature of American vernacular speech. The dictionary highlights how idioms reflect cultural values and patterns of thought in American society.

Readers report this dictionary works well as a reference guide for English learners and ESL teachers. The alphabetical organization and clear examples help students understand idiom meanings and usage. Likes: - Includes pronunciation guides - Groups related idioms together - Provides multiple example sentences - Covers both common and obscure idioms - Compact size for portability Dislikes: - Some entries lack detailed explanations - Examples can be dated/old-fashioned - Print is small and dense - Missing some current slang/idioms - Index could be more comprehensive Ratings: Amazon: 4.5/5 (127 reviews) Goodreads: 4.1/5 (48 ratings) Several ESL teachers note using it as a classroom reference. One reviewer called it "indispensable for teaching idiomatic expressions," while another mentioned it was "more practical than comprehensive idiom dictionaries." Some international students said certain examples didn't reflect modern usage, with one noting "many phrases seem from the 1980s-90s."

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🔹 The book contains over 2,500 contemporary American idioms, making it one of the most comprehensive collections of its kind 🔹 Author Richard Spears, Ph.D., has written more than 150 dictionaries and reference books, including dictionaries of slang and phrasal verbs 🔹 Many idioms in the book include both literal and figurative sample sentences, helping readers understand how the expressions can be used in different contexts 🔹 The dictionary includes special markers to indicate which idioms are potentially offensive or vulgar, helping non-native speakers avoid social faux pas 🔹 Updated editions of the book have incorporated modern digital-age idioms and expressions, such as those related to social media and technology