The Play of Words

Learn the origins of popular phrases in the English language through this exciting book of games perfect for language lovers.

Do you know the connection between the expression A HARROWING EXPERIENCE and agriculture, between BY AND LARGE and sailing, between GET YOUR GOAT and horses, or between STEAL YOUR THUNDER and show business?

You probably have heard the comparisons HAPPY AS A CLAM, SMART AS A WHIP, PLEASED AS PUNCH, DEAD AS A DOORNAIL--but have you ever wondered why a clam should be happy, a whip smart, punch pleased, and a doornail dead?

Through the fifty games included in The Play of Words you'll discover the answers to these questions as well as hundreds of other semantic delights that repose in our marvelous English language.

Author: Richard Lederer
Publisher: Gallery Books
Published: 09/01/1991
Pages: 288
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.84lbs
Size: 8.53h x 5.55w x 0.71d
ISBN13: 9780671689094
ISBN10: 0671689096
BISAC Categories:
- Language Arts & Disciplines | Spelling & Vocabulary
- Education | Reference
- Games & Activities | General