Introduction

This collection will appeal to everyone who has ever wondered about the origin of phrases like "all part of life''s rich pattern" and "long time no see". It covers a wide range of catch phrases in current use in all parts of the English-speaking world.

Sources and Content

Most entries are drawn from the second edition of Eric Partridge's Dictionary of Catch Phrases (second edition, edited by Paul Beale), but have been completely rewritten in the light of recent research, and there are many additions.

Examples of Catch Phrases

Catch Phrases include: close your eyes and think of England! have I got news for you! ... refreshes the parts that other ... cannot reach some mothers do''ave''em! you are awful, but I like you.