Why Do We Say It? by Castle Books Staff: Book Cover

    Why Do We Say It?: The Stories Behind the Words, Expressions and Cliches We Use by Castle Books Staff, Frank Oppel

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    • Pub. Date: March 1991
    • 286pp

      Reader Rating: (4 ratings)

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      • Overview
      • Editorial Reviews
      • Customer Reviews

      Product Details

      • Pub. Date: March 1991
      • Publisher: Castle Books
      • Format: Hardcover, 286pp

      Synopsis

      How did lollypops get their name? What's long about a longshoreman? Why do we pass the buck? The answers are in this fascinating volume. The intriguing origins of hundreds of unusual words and expressions are here, organized in a handy alphabetical format. Useful for reference and fun just for browsing, Why Do We Say It? is also a great way to expand your vocabulary and enjoy doing it.

      Customer Reviews

      • Reader Rating:
      • Ratings: 4Reviews: 2

      Why Do We Say It?: The Stories Behind the Words, Expressions and Cliches We Useby Anonymous

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      November 30, 2004: I find the book a lot of fun. The English language is full of colorful expressions and I have often wondered about their origins. What's the origin of the word 'bootleg'? Of 'deadline'? Why do people say 'that takes the cake'? If you're curious about such expressions, you might want to read this book. (I confess I occasionally want to get someone's goat.)

      Why Do We Say It?: The Stories Behind the Words, Expressions and Cliches We Useby Anonymous

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      December 04, 2001: This is the most inane book I have ever purchased by mistake. It has entries like, 'Have you ever wondered about the saying, 'God Bless the Duke of Argyle?'' No, because I've never heard that saying. Writing seems to be for second graders. Avoid.