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    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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    (Hardcover)

    Details from Seller

    • ISBN: 1555210104
    • Publisher: Castle Books
    • Pub. Date: March 1991
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    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

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    • Ratings: 4Reviews: 2

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

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    11/30/2004: 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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    12/04/2001: 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.