- Paperback
- Publisher: Dennis Publishing (10 Oct 2008)
- Language English
- ISBN-10: 1906372322
- ISBN-13: 978-1906372323
- Product Dimensions: 22.8 x 15.2 x 4.4 cm
- Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
- Amazon Bestsellers Rank: 138,003 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
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Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
25 of 26 people found the following review helpful
This is the most important contribution to the field of sociolinguistics since the pioneering work of Chomsky in the late 1960s. Well known TV personality Roger Mellie has put his unparalleled knowledge of scatological verbiage to a use that has opened up entirely new vistas for language research. Admittedly, he did carry out the original research while at a bit of loose end, thanks to his suspension over an "open mike" incident that involved a comment about Germaine Greer's potential need for more regular interaction with the male member.
Psycholinguistics states that language shapes cultural development and identity. In that case, the English language as presented in the Profanisaurus suggests that the British have a highly developed interest in cheap pornography and fart gags. Our legendary coyness when it comes to discussing sexual matters is reflected in the numerous entries with metaphorical allusions to just about every sex act imaginable (and believe me, having perused this book I'm now aware of a few new ones).
Words and phrases unique to particular regions are well documented, a useful resource now that public broadcasters employ increasing numbers of presenters and announcers with varied dialects. For instance, without the Profanisaurus I would have been stumped when it was announced on BBC News 24 that Peter Andre's parting gift to Jordan was a "Cleveland Steamer" in their marital bed.
While academic in tone, I feel that the Profanisaurus still makes an excellent reference for the educated layman. Regular study will undoubtedly lead to an increased vocabulary, which could prevent those awkward moments when you need to describe something unusual. For example, it's only thanks to reading this book that I found myself able to satisfactorily explain a particularly filthy sexual act that I wished the wife to perform on me. Despite my succinctness she still refused though.
Psycholinguistics states that language shapes cultural development and identity. In that case, the English language as presented in the Profanisaurus suggests that the British have a highly developed interest in cheap pornography and fart gags. Our legendary coyness when it comes to discussing sexual matters is reflected in the numerous entries with metaphorical allusions to just about every sex act imaginable (and believe me, having perused this book I'm now aware of a few new ones).
Words and phrases unique to particular regions are well documented, a useful resource now that public broadcasters employ increasing numbers of presenters and announcers with varied dialects. For instance, without the Profanisaurus I would have been stumped when it was announced on BBC News 24 that Peter Andre's parting gift to Jordan was a "Cleveland Steamer" in their marital bed.
While academic in tone, I feel that the Profanisaurus still makes an excellent reference for the educated layman. Regular study will undoubtedly lead to an increased vocabulary, which could prevent those awkward moments when you need to describe something unusual. For example, it's only thanks to reading this book that I found myself able to satisfactorily explain a particularly filthy sexual act that I wished the wife to perform on me. Despite my succinctness she still refused though.
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful
Don't read this in company. I did, and annoyed the hell out of everyone with my incessant tittering and sniggering......
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful
An amazing source for all the terms I have come to know and love over the years, plus a lot more. I intend to try and learn a couple of new terms a week so that I can slip them into my daily dialogue, so that I can have a quiet laugh to myself as I use them.
Highly recommended to all profaniphiles out there.
Highly recommended to all profaniphiles out there.
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Most Recent Customer Reviews
Tee hee LOL Chuckle Chuckle
I have not laughed so much in a long time - if you don't mind "colourful" language and want a laugh, this makes a great reference book for those naughty phrases you've always... Read more
Published 11 months ago by SVP
Love it!
This book has been taken on many an evening out with friends for a laugh. Not to be produced in polite company, but with some good friends with a similar appreciation of it's... Read more
Published 16 months ago by H
Profanisaurus
You're never too old to learn, nor to expand your vocabulary. GSOH essential & not for the faint-hearted. Read more
Published 21 months ago by Derek Hall
A farrago of filth
Oh dear god! I've only managed to finish the letter A (Aardvark's Nose to Aztec Two-Step) and I honestly don't think I can go on. I'm crying with laughter and my sides are aching. Read more
Published 23 months ago by Crookedmouth
Educating the masses
Bought this to educate my Dutch workmates on the subtleties of the English language it has provided hours of chortling enjoyment and eye watering amusement. Read more
Published 23 months ago by GregK
Swearing at its best
If you want to improve your profanities or learn the meaning of the words which have just been used to insult you, then this tome will fulfill your every need. Read more
Published on 3 May 2010 by David Evans
Ideal for adult birthday present!
I brough a few copies of this book and its very very funny! Great birthday present but it is rude so only suitable for adults.
Published on 1 May 2010 by R. LYONS
filthy but hilarious!
I've bought this for lots of people in the past, and it always provokes gales of laughter. Great for flicking through at random. NOT for the easily-offended though!!
Published on 31 Mar 2010 by Lesley Symons
Magna Farta
Unbelievably funny. Would love to go for a pint with the guys who write this stuff.
Published on 14 Mar 2010 by B. Robertson
Profanisaurus
This was bought for my son, at his request! He thought it was hysterical when he saw his friend's copy and he wanted one for himself - he couldn't stop giggling when he received... Read more
Published on 4 Feb 2010 by Mrs. Jane A. Longden
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