The Real McCoy: Why We Say the Things We Say - Hardcover

The foreword to this alphabetical arrangement of "everyday phrases" points out that "metaphorical expressions and allusions give life and vibrancy" to language and "have done so for as long as anyone can remember." Indeed, the origin of many sayings has long since faded into obscurity, although the phrase itself may still be in wide use. Hole intends to fill that gap with this appealing book, which reveals the sometimes-surprising origins of some of our favorite sayings. Starting with A1 (first used in 1775) and ending with spin a yarn(a nautical term), Hole provides a brief definition followed by the phrase's history, usage, and variation in meaning over time. Shaded panels throughout also group expressions by theme, such as colors (caught red-handed), eating and drinking (days of wine and roses), and parts of the body (down in the mouth). A particularly interesting section covers the remarkable number of less-famous expressions attributable to Shakespeare, such as to your heart's content and at one fell swoop. Addictive reading for verbivores and fine browsing material for everyone else. Joanne Wilkinson
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"Addictive reading for verbivores and fine browsing material for everyone else."--Booklist