Oxford Dictionary of Modern Slang (Oxford Quick Reference)

Excellent book

It's an awesome dictionary, really helpful for translation students or translators that works with english language, its a must have! :)

I purchased this book with the hopes of improving the dialog of contemporary characters in my writing. Unfortunately, most of the slang words included in this book is not very 'modern' and seem to come from the 20's-60's and earlier. This would be fine if you are writing a story about gangsters, gun molls or flower children.Unfortunately, I really don't see my characters using words like 'far-out,' 'drongo,' or 'face-fungus.'Overall, a disappointing purchase. Perhaps useful if you are writing historic fiction.

In reference to LadyNaava's complaint that this volume doesn't actually contain current or recent slang. I fear that's impossible. At least for a bound reference. In the time it takes to print a book, let alone compile a dictionary, current slang changes, changes back, disappears and is replaced.That said, the warning that this volume may not be up to date with many of the better "regular" dictionaries (which have recently added Homer's D'oh! after only twenty years) is appreciated.

Saw "Oxford" and thought I was getting the real deal.This is not a good reference book. Constantly getting"no further information" or "see this or that."

Beware: contrary to the item description above, this volume is not organized thematically; it does not contain any section.

I loved the information and origins of the slang words in frequent use and found the examples given for each one clever and often hilarious.

Bought as a pressie for a Polish co-worker trying to learn English but was being taught "BBC" style and didn't have a good understanding of every day street language. Great dictionary and some highly amusing definitions for those who have English as their first language - almost tempted to buy one for myself!

The title says it all - it's a dictionary. No more, no less. Don't expect any winding tales of word and phrase origins, because you won't find any. Why? Because this is a dictionary, not an etymology book. What do you want, a genie to pop up only to tell you to bugger off (buy it, and look that one up)? You get your money's worth, and that's more than I can say for most books these days.

Bought for a friend who's first language isn't English and never gets any of the jokes in the office. She loves this book and refers to it often. Arrived in great condition and quickly.

Exellent tool for writers, readers,teachers, expats, students ... Recommended.