Careful writers and speakers agree that clichés are generally to be avoided. However, nearly all of us continue to use them. Why do they persist in our language? In It's Been Said Before, lexicographer Orin Hargraves examines the peculiar idea and power of the cliché. He helps readers understand why certain phrases became clichés and why they should be avoided -- or why they still have life left in them. Indeed, clichés can be useful -- even powerful. And few people even agree on which expressions are clichés and which are not. Many regard any frequent idiom as a cliché, and a phrase regarded as a cliché in one context may be seen simply as an effective expression in another. Examples drawn from data about actual usage support Hargraves' identification of true clichés. They also illuminate his commentary on usage problems and helpful suggestions for eliminating clichés where they serve no useful purpose. Concise and lively, It's Been Said Before serves as a guide to the most overused phrases in the English language -- and to phrases that are used exactly as often as they should be.

It's Been Said Before: A Guide to the Use and Abuse of Clichés

Politics & Social Sciences

Hargraves, Orin

Social Sciences

Oxford University Press

Have you ever traveled to England, been offered a "fairycake," and not known how to respond? Have you ever had to explain the difference between a "sleeping policeman" and a "speed bump" to a visiting Brit? Are you sure you know the difference between a "chip" and a "crisp"? (Transatlantic English) is a practical and entertaining guide to the differences between American and British English. As if written from a point in the Atlantic ocean exactly between Britain and the U.S., this book catalogs the differences between the "two" languages by taking a culturally neutral stance - addressing the needs of both British and American readers and listeners. Not a collection of lists, the chapters of (Transatlantic English) are arranged around important and familiar topics, including Politics, Law, and Government; Business and Money; Medicine and Healthcare; Education; Food, Clothing, and Shelter; Profanity and Obscenity, making this book essential not only for word lovers, but also students abroad, business and casual travelers, and anyone confused by the differences in our common tongue. With (Transatlantic English) you won't be caught with your "knickers" down again.

Mighty Fine Words and Smashing Expressions: Making Sense of Transatlantic English

Reference

Dictionaries & Thesauruses

Learn about the people and places of Morocco.

Morocco (Cultures of the World)

Teen & Young Adult

Seward, Pat

Education & Reference

Cavendish Square

A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette in London

Culture Shock! London: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette (Culture Shock! Guides)

Marshall Cavendish+corp

A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette in Morocco

Culture Shock! Morocco: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette (Culture Shock! Guides)

History

Africa

Marshall Cavendish Intl

With over three million copies in print, CultureShock! is a dynamic and indispensable range of guides covering countless destinations around the world. The series is especially intended for travellers who are looking to truly understand the countries they are visiting and who might even consider residing there. into the local environment and is packed with useful details on transportation, taxes, accommodation, health, shopping and festivals. Additionally, each book provides concise insights into the history, language, cuisine and business practises of each country, as well as explaining the customs, traditions and social etiquette in a lively and informative style.

Culture Shock! Chicago: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette (Culture Shock! Guides)

Travel

Culture Shock! London: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

Culture Shock! Morocco: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

Culture Shock! Chicago: A Survival Guide to Customs and Etiquette

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Books by Hargraves, Orin