Dictionary of Word Origins - Couverture souple

Flavell, L.; Flavell, R.H.

Couverture souple

ISBN 10 : 1856262146 ISBN 13 : 9781856262149

Editeur : Kyle Cathie, 1996

Synopsis

Aimed at both word-puzzle enthusiasts and language students, this is a companion to "Dictionary of Idioms" and "Dictionary of Proverbs", and is by the same authors. It contains over 500 entries on common words ("boycott", "tawdry", "candidate"), their origins and their histories, and many other words are detailed in cross-references. In some instances the development of the word is illustrated with tree-diagrams showing its progress - for example, from Greek to Latin to Old French to English. The diagrams also highlight those offshoots which developed into other, often seemingly unconnected words. Throughout the book there are mini-essays on general topics, including sources, derivations and common themes such as words for plants, or for cloth.

A propos du livre

Présentation de l'éditeur

Words are the building blocks of language, but their derivations are often stories in themselves. Have you ever wondered why we wear perfume, read magazines, vote for candidates, speak in jargon? With entries from accolade to zoo and including such disparate items as blackmail, fiasco, influence and rigmarole, 'Dictionary of Word Origins' explains the origins and development of 300 commonly used words. Essays scattered throughout the book deal with more general topics such as 'A Taste of India', 'Days of the Week' and 'Precise Timing' and allow the authors to expand on broader themes. The result is an indispensable guide to the richness and diversity of the English language and an endless source of fascination for anyone who delights in words.

Biographie de l'auteur

Linda Flavell has a degree in modern languages and subsequent qualifications in secondary and primary teaching. Roger, who died in December 2005, had many years' experience working for London University's Institute of Education, concerned latterly with education and international development, and with online education. The Flavells' other books for Kyle Cathie are A Dictionary of English Down the Ages and Dictionary of Proverbs and Dictionary of Idioms, which are also available in a recently revised edition.

Détails de l'édition

• Éditeur: Kyle Cathie
• Date d'édition: 1996
• ISBN 10: 1856262146
• ISBN 13: 9781856262149
• Reliure: Broché
• Langue: anglais
• Nombre de pages: 288
• Coordonnées du fabricant: non disponible