Cover Image: The Cabinet of Linguistic Curiosities

The Cabinet of Linguistic Curiosities

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Member Reviews

This is absolutely one of my favorite kind of nonfiction reads. The format and subject matter allows its readers a variety of preferences in where they could actually read one entry a day, go through the whole thing like an ordinary book, or even just pick it up and open it at random. No matter which way they decide to tackle this book and whether they decide to read about the etymology about one obscure word or several dozen pages in one go, they're guaranteed to an enjoyable and educational experience every single time without fail.

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I love words. Especially old, odd, seldom used ones. I've even manage to help revive a few from obscurity among family and friends. I even have a journal I've been collecting them in for years! This book is an absolute delight for us philologoes! It's a wonderful browsing sort of book, though many of us will sit and read it cover to cover in no time at all and then return again and again to linger over new found favorites. Nutty, isn't it? I'll be trying some of these ones in the future. They are never too archaic to try and revive.

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This book is so fun! I ended up devouring it and can't wait to use some of these words in my daily life. The stories behind some of the words is so entertaining and I found myself laughing sometimes. I learned so much. What a great resource, and so fun too. I would recommend this to anyone. 5 out of 5 stars.

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I guess I spoiled the rest of my year by reading this all at once, but it was worth it. A different entry for each day introduces another obscure, odd or otherwise interesting word and gives the reader information on that word - along with a true story that depicts how the word is used. Much better than giving you a word of the day and a definition, many of the words have stuck with me (actually reading one per day would be more effective) by giving the story along with the word. Highly recommended.

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The Cabinet of Linguistic Curiosities is a unique interesting book. I enjoyed the different words and meanings. I learned some great new words that no one will have a clue about.

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The Cabinet of Linguistic Curiosities is an entertaining and amusing look at the peculiarities of the English language. Each day of the year an obscure word is provided along with its definition and etymology. For example: Choreomania, a mania for dancing or Hubbleshow, a noisy uproar, a riot. The entries are well-written and only a page each so you can quickly catch up on your daily word. The author also provides a select bibliography and index for easy reference. This book is just a lot of fun! It’s filled with conversation starters and a must have for anyone interested in linguistics!

Full disclosure- An ARC of this book was provided via NetGalley in return for this review.

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I have this vague obsession with words. Spelling, different usages, sounds alike, and where they originate. I have insomnia, and often try to lull myself to sleep with language.
So, I did think that I would enjoy this book. I'm truth? Eh? Well, it's been a bit of a slog. I always try to give a book up to 30%. This? Nope. I don't believe I made it that far. I've struggled every step of the way. So, I'm sorry, but I quit. Other's may enjoy this, but I most assuredly did not. As always, my thanks to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review.

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