The perfect answer to the question 'what's been said about this?' This fully revised and updated edition of an Oxford classic is a truly unique reference book which brings together phrases, proverbs, and quotations in a single thematic volume. Apt and memorable sayings are arranged under a wide range of subjects, giving explanations and origins of the expressions and tracing the links between them. Oxford's unique language research highlights sayings from languages around the world which have become popular in English. Here you can find out about a Stepford wife under Conformity or Banquo's ghost at Guilt, learn that when advising Caution in India they say 'Call on God, but row away from the rocks' while the English say 'Let sleeping dogs lie', and hear from Brigitte Bardot on Maturity that 'It's sad to grow old-but nice to ripen' and from Mussolini on Action that 'Inactivity is death'. Over a thousand new items have been added to this edition, and new themes include Colours, Neighbours, and Wisdom.
A full keyword index and generous cross referencing allow the book to function both as a look-up resource and a browser's delight: the ideal book for anyone fascinated by the words people use and reuse.