A Dictionary of Euphemisms (Oxford Quick Reference) - Softcover

Holder, R. W.

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9780192800510: A Dictionary of Euphemisms (Oxford Quick Reference)
Softcover
ISBN 10: 0192800515 ISBN 13: 9780192800510
Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1997

Synopsis

We all use euphemisms every day. We speak of "full-figured" women. We "fudge" on our income tax. We step lively to avoid "horse apples"--and step even livelier in the grip of the "Aztec Two-step." We say that the dead have "bit the dust" or have been "promoted to glory." Now, in A Dictionary of Euphemisms, Revised Edition, R. W. Holder gives us an engaging volume that celebrates this human tendency to use mild, vague or roundabout expressions rather than those which are blunt, precise, and disagreeably true.
Here are thousands of entertaining and informative entries that range from long-established circumlocutions such as "everlasting life," "the Grim Reaper," "powder room," and "house of ill repute," to recent coinages such as "odorously challenged" (smelly), "corporate entertainment" (bribery), "AMW - actress, model, whatever" (prostitute), "downsizing" (laying off workers), and "white-knuckler" (a commercial flight on a small aircraft). Arranged in alphabetical order, the Dictionary gives definitions, examples from real authors, and historical explanations where appropriate. Holder also includes an extensive bibliography and, equally important, a Thematic Index, so that readers can look up euphemistic words and expressions for Death, Mental Illness, Narcotics, Obesity, Poverty, and other topics.
A Dictionary of Euphemisms is a browser's delight and an essential reference book for all lovers of language. Readers will find in it a captivating guide to the art of not saying what we mean.

"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.

About the Author

About the Author:
R.W. Holder is the director of numerous companies, speaks several languages, and travels widely.

From the Back Cover

Now, in A Dictionary of Euphemisms, R.W. Holder gives us an engaging volume that celebrates this human tendency to use mild, vague or roundabout expressions rather than those which are blunt, precise, and disagreeably true.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Publisher
Oxford University Press
Publication date
1997
Language
English
ISBN 10 
0192800515
ISBN 13 
9780192800510
Binding
Paperback
Number of pages
490
Rating
  • 3.69 out of 5 stars
    71 ratings by Goodreads

Other Popular Editions of the Same Title

9780198692751: A Dictionary of Euphemisms

Featured Edition

ISBN 10:  0198692757 ISBN 13:  9780198692751
Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1996
Hardcover