The "Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable" by Elizabeth Knowles is an impressive and informative reference book that delves into the origins and meanings of commonly used phrases and literary allusions. With over 9,000 entries, it covers a wide range of subjects, including mythology, folklore, Shakespearean quotes, and idiomatic expressions from different cultures.
This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in unraveling the intricacies of language and culture. Knowles provides clear and concise explanations of each entry, tracing the historical development of phrases and fables and exploring their significance in various contexts. A notable aspect of the book is the inclusion of literary references, which add depth and nuance to the explanations.
What distinguishes this book is the meticulous attention to detail. It goes beyond mere definitions, delving into the origins and evolution of phrases, shedding light on their etymology and historical usage. The entries are well-researched and supported by numerous references, making it a reliable resource for both language enthusiasts and scholars.
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The layout of the book is user-friendly, featuring alphabetized entries and cross-referencing between related terms. This ensures easy navigation and quick access to specific information. The inclusion of an index further enhances its usability, allowing readers to swiftly locate desired phrases or concepts.
Overall, the "Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable" by Elizabeth Knowles is an exceptional reference book that offers a comprehensive exploration of the English language, its phrases, and fables. Whether you're a curious reader, a writer, or simply passionate about language, this book is guaranteed to broaden your knowledge and deepen your appreciation for the complexity and diversity of the English language.
What are readers saying?
The "Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable," authored by Elizabeth Knowles, has gained widespread acclaim from readers for its comprehensive collection of explanations and origins of phrases, idioms, and cultural references. Knowles' thoroughness and extensive research have been lauded by many reviewers, who appreciate the depth of knowledge presented in the dictionary. By delving into the origins and historical context of various phrases and fables, the book offers readers a deeper understanding and appreciation of these linguistic elements. In addition to providing definitions, the dictionary provides intriguing insights into the cultural significance of different phrases, enhancing its value as a reference book.
Readers have commended the book's intuitive structure and user-friendly format. With entries organized alphabetically, finding a specific term or phrase is made effortless. The inclusion of cross-references is another valuable feature, allowing readers to explore related terms and concepts with ease.
The dictionary's comprehensiveness is a standout attribute that many reviewers appreciate. Covering a wide range of phrases and fables from different time periods and cultures, this resource has proven to be valuable, catering to both casual readers and researchers alike. The inclusion of literary and mythological references adds another layer of richness to the dictionary and has been well-received by readers.
The readability of the "Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable" is also highly regarded. The concise and clear entries make it accessible to a diverse audience, including those without extensive knowledge of literature or folklore. Even complex terms are explained in a manner that is easily understood, further enhancing the book's appeal.
Overall, Elizabeth Knowles' "Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable" is praised by readers for its thoroughness, comprehensive content, user-friendly format, and readability. Whether used as a reference guide or for leisurely browsing, this dictionary is highly recommended for those interested in exploring the origins and meanings of various phrases and fables.
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