Can it really be true that 'golf' stands for 'Gentlemen Only Ladies Forbidden'? Or that 'rule of thumb' comes from an archaic legal principle that a man may chastise his wife, but only with a rod no thicker than his thumb?
These and hundreds of other stories are commonly told and retold whenever people meet. They grow up in part because expressions are often genuinely mysterious. Why, for example, are satisfying meals 'square' rather than any other shape? And how did anyone ever come up with the idea that if you're competent at something you can 'cut the mustard'?
Michael Quinion here retells many of the more bizarre tales, and explains their real origins where they're known. This is a fascinating treasure-trove of fiction and fact for anyone interested in language.
"synopsis" may belong to another edition of this title.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
Shipping:
£ 4.76
From U.S.A. to United Kingdom
Book Description Soft Cover. Condition: new. Seller Inventory # 9780141012230
Book Description Paperback. Condition: Brand New. 304 pages. 7.09x4.41x1.10 inches. In Stock. Seller Inventory # zk0141012234
Book Description Paperback. Condition: new. New. Fast Shipping and good customer service. Seller Inventory # Holz_New_0141012234
Book Description Condition: New. Dieser Artikel ist ein Print on Demand Artikel und wird nach Ihrer Bestellung fuer Sie gedruckt. Michael Quinion here retells many of the more bizarre tales, and explains their real origins where they re known. This is a fascinating treasure-trove of fiction and fact for anyone interested in language.Steht Golf wirklich fuer Gentlemen Only, Ladies F. Seller Inventory # 346240875
Book Description Paperback. Condition: new. New. Seller Inventory # Wizard0141012234
Book Description Paperback. Condition: new. New Copy. Customer Service Guaranteed. Seller Inventory # think0141012234
Book Description Condition: New. New. In shrink wrap. Looks like an interesting title! 0.39. Seller Inventory # Q-0141012234
Book Description Mass Market Paperback. Condition: New. Seller Inventory # Abebooks60594