The Facts on File Encyclopedia of Word and Phrase Origins (Facts on File Writer's Library)

As a writer, I fall into the pits of cliches and over used phrases that not many people understand. Every now and then people will come out with something that sounds really old but makes no sense.

Encyclopedia is ESSENTIAL to any English and word enthusiast as well as writer. This is like an extra dictionary, only more in depth. The price is amazing and the words inside are intriguing. Knowing the origin of words and phrases will enlighten you to why it's used, how it's used, and how it's changed over time. Very interesting, deeply detailed, and a must have!

Book is too big and many of the origins I believe are incorrect. Will be returning the book

...Writer's and teachers's of the English language will love this publication...as well as anyone who has pondered "where did that saying come from?"Or "Why do we say that" It gives an enjoyable and great incite into the slang and idioms we use daily.

Excellent book. My students and I enjoy looking up phrases and words in class

This book is interesting if you just want to read through and learn some interesting facts about word origins. It's not been a good resource for me for looking up meanings.

I've tried to use it as I would use a dictionary. When I hear a phrase, I often wonder what it means. Just this morning I wanted to look up "anchor to the wind". I was pretty sure I wouldn't find it. I didn't. I did learn that the "ch" in the middle of the word anchor is confusing, and that it was added in error. That's interesting to know, but not helpful for learning the meaning of a phrase I've heard used.

I can't remember previous examples that I've looked up, but my impression is that most time that I try to look something up, I can't find it. I don't know of a better book to recommend as a reference, but I do know that I've been disappointed with this book for that purpose.