Curious English Words and Phrases

The truth behind the expressions we use

Max Cryer

Have you ever wondered where terms like ‘end of your tether’, ‘gets my goat’ or ‘letting ones hair down’ come from? Or why we call some people ‘geezers’, ‘sugar daddies’ or ‘lounge lizards’? Or where the words ‘eavesdropping’, ‘nickname’ and ‘D-Day’ come from?

They are just a few of the many words and phrases that language expert Max Cryer examines in this fact-filled and fun new book.

Max explains where these curious expressions come from, what they mean and how they are used.

Along the way he tells a host of colourful anecdotes and dispels quite a few myths – Did Churchill originate the phrase ‘black dog’? And if ‘ivory tower’ can be found in the Bible, why has its meaning changed so drastically?

Curious English Words and Phrases is a treasure trove for lovers of language. Informative, amusing and value for money, this book is ‘the real McCoy’. From ‘couch potato’ to ‘Bob’s your uncle’, you’ll find the explanation here!

Specifications: Paperback | 210 x 135 mm | 388 pages | eBook available

About the author

Max Cryer is a seasoned researcher and writer on aspects of the English language. A well-known broadcaster and entertainer, he hosts a weekly radio slot on the subject. In a long career, he has been a schoolteacher, a compere and TV host, as well as a singer in London, Las Vegas and Hollywood; His other books for Exisle are, Preposterous Proverbs, Who Said That First?, Love Me Tender and The Godzone Dictionary