As I was humming and hawing about a suitable subject for an article, out of the blue popped up a reference to this book. “Great Scott!”, I declared. “This is something I could get my teeth into. I’ll give it a fair crack of the whip.”

As you may have gathered, I’ve been enjoying delving into the meaning of some of the expressions we come across all the time — and a few we don’t (or at least, I haven’t). Indeed, each time I discover a new phrase, I trip the light fantastic.

I’m impressed with this book for several reasons. Firstly, it has, so far, delivered the goods every time I’ve consulted it about a particular expression.

Secondly, it includes some Americanisms, which I think is particularly useful. Sometimes I find myself reading an American article and not understanding it fully because of its use of American idioms.

Thirdly, many of the entries include examples of where the expression has been used (not the first recorded use as far as I can tell).

Finally, although the entries are in alphabetical order, which is very useful in itself, there is also an index of themes at the back of the book. This is great if you’re looking to spice up your writing with an apt expression. Do bear in mind, though, that those of us who are a bit long in the tooth tend to get bent out of shape when there’s too much of a good thing.

Verdict: A brilliant addition to your reference collection.

I was sent a complimentary review copy of this book.