COMP CLOSED ‘Rebel Without a Clause’ by Susan Butler

Do you like books that explore the absurdity of the English language? If so, then you’ll want to get your hands on one of our copies of this week’s giveaway book – Rebel Without a Clause by Susan Butler.

The English language is changing constantly. We invent new words and phrases, we mash up idioms, we mispronounce, misuse, misappropriate. Sue Butler has heard it all and is ready to defend and disagree with common usage.

Veering from tolerance to outrage, she examines how the word ‘sheila’ took a nose-dive after World War II, considers whether we should hunker or bunker down, and bemoans the emptiness of rhetoric. She shouts ‘down with closure’ as it leaps from the psychoanalyst’s couch, explains why we’ve lost the plot on deceptively, untangles the manuka honey stoush, fathoms why the treatment of famous is infamous, and ponders whether you would, could or should…

Rebel without a Clause is a fascinatingly idiosyncratic romp through the world of words by lexicographer and former Macquarie Dictionary Editor, Sue Butler.

About the Author
Susan Butler was the Editor of the Macquarie Dictionary, Australia’s national dictionary and, as Editor, was largely responsible for the selection and writing of new words. She is the author of the Dinkum Dictionary, The Aitch Factor, and New Words: Changes in Australian English (2020). She is also a regular commentator on Australian English on radio, television and the internet and was a TEDxSydney speaker in 2015. In June 2018, she was made an Officer of the Order of Australia.

Well, it sure sounds like Sue knows her stuff! So, if you’d like to get your hands on this fun new book, simply tell us what word or phrase gets on YOUR nerves – and why (in 25 words or fewer)! Our favourite three answers will WIN a copy.

Entries close midday Monday 1 March 2021, Sydney/Melbourne time.
GOOD LUCK!