But this dictionary of approximately 2,000 idioms is different from other dictionaries of idioms. Such dictionaries often try to give a complete list of all idioms; in this book we have concentrated on phrases that are used in certain conversational situations. This book will be found useful by all speakers of English. Students learning English as a second or foreign language, especially, will find help here that is just not included in other reference books; so this dictionary will increase the understanding of what has been heard and will also develop a proficiency in using idioms. The index brings an additional benefit: by consulting the list of subjects, the user is referred to appropriate phrases.