Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms

The Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms contains over 6,000 idioms used in contemporary English language. This reference work traces the origins and development of these expressions while providing clear definitions and example sentences. The dictionary organizes entries alphabetically and includes historical context for many common phrases and expressions. Each entry features pronunciation guidance, variations in usage, and notes about regional or social differences in how the idioms are employed. The compilation draws from both British and American English sources, incorporating idioms from literature, media, and everyday speech. Many entries include citations showing how the expressions have evolved over time. This comprehensive work serves as both a practical reference guide and a window into how language reflects cultural values and shared experiences through metaphor and figurative speech.

Readers value this reference work for its clear explanations and etymology details that trace idioms' origins. The dictionary covers both common and obscure phrases, with many users noting it helps them understand British English expressions. Likes: - Comprehensive alphabetical organization - Historical background on each idiom's development - Includes example sentences showing usage - Cross-references related expressions Dislikes: - Some dated/obsolete phrases included - British focus leaves out many American/international idioms - Print size considered too small by multiple readers - Index could be more detailed Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (47 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.5/5 (98 ratings) Amazon US: 4.3/5 (76 ratings) One reader noted: "Perfect for writers and English learners, but the tiny font strains eyes." Another mentioned: "Great resource but needs more contemporary expressions used in modern speech."

Cambridge International Dictionary of Idioms by Cambridge University Press This reference work presents idioms from British, American, and Australian English with origin explanations and example sentences from authentic sources.

Dictionary of English Phrases by Penguin Reference The volume traces the etymology of common phrases and includes historical context for over 10,000 entries from Medieval times to present day.

McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Idioms by Richard Spears The compilation focuses on contemporary American English idioms with detailed usage notes and real-world examples from American media and literature.

NTC's English Idioms Dictionary by Richard Spears This reference provides definitions for over 13,000 idiomatic expressions including regional variations and degree of formality markers.

Dictionary of Idioms and Their Origins by Linda Flavell and Roger Flavell The text explains the historical and cultural background of 400 common English-language idioms through etymological research and documented sources.

📚 The Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms contains over 6,000 idioms, from common phrases to colorful expressions dating back several centuries. 🎓 Author John Ayto is a prominent lexicographer who has written and edited more than 50 reference works, including the Oxford Dictionary of Modern Slang and the Oxford Dictionary of Rhyming Slang. 🗣️ Many English idioms originated from specific historical events or practices - for example, "saved by the bell" comes from boxing, not from being buried alive as commonly believed. 📖 The dictionary includes detailed etymological notes that trace each idiom's origins, helping readers understand how phrases like "raining cats and dogs" evolved over time. 🌍 The book differentiates between British, American, and Australian idioms, showing how the same language can develop distinct expressions in different English-speaking regions.