Brewers' Dictionary of Phrase and Fable

Dr Ebenezer Cobham Brewer contribution to the literary world may not spring to mind easily. I should imagine that many twentieth century writers would admit to using his most famous work. Brewer was a compiler of information and in his long life wrote over forty books, many of which have become standard references and have run into many revisions over the century since his death. As is often the ironic twist of fate, this his most famous work, was ...
...little commercial value. So down to business, what is the book all about? As the name suggests this is a compilation of phrases, quotations and adages, as well as the background story that outlines its history and usage. Set out alphabetically, this is really a dictionary of sayings and unusual words. Those familiar with the current program "Balderdash and Piffle" will find this a written version of the same concept. Whereas the Oxford English Dictionary, ...

steerpyke 04.02.2006 · Read full review
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