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Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats: And Other Meticulously Assembled Lists of Extremely Valuable Nonsense
There’s one thing that can provide comfort in a world of chaos and overly specific lists.
Ever wondered what the Mandarin word for platypus translates to? Probably not, but it’s “duck mouth beast.” And there’s more where that came from, thanks to Adam Sharp’s Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats , a collection of fascinating, hilarious, and brilliantly odd lists.
This book covers just about everything you never knew you didn’t know, from the noises that animals make around the world to titles of movies that sound dirty but aren’t—and much more. Whether you revel in trivia, desire more creative ways to curse your foes, or simply enjoy the structure of a good list, you’ll love the weird genius of Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats.
Ever wondered what the Mandarin word for platypus translates to? Probably not, but it’s “duck mouth beast.” And there’s more where that came from, thanks to Adam Sharp’s Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats , a collection of fascinating, hilarious, and brilliantly odd lists.
This book covers just about everything you never knew you didn’t know, from the noises that animals make around the world to titles of movies that sound dirty but aren’t—and much more. Whether you revel in trivia, desire more creative ways to curse your foes, or simply enjoy the structure of a good list, you’ll love the weird genius of Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats.
- GenresNonfiction
192 pages, Hardcover
First published November 23, 2021
23 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Adam Sharp
7 books161 followersAdam is originally from Manchester but
has also lived in London, Melbourne,
Sydney, Queensland, the Channel Islands,
the Canary Islands, Nashville, and
Newcastle-upon-Tyne (he’s not very good at
staying still).
Adam has had over thirty jobs (he’s not a very
loyal employee either). Some of the things
he’s been paid to do are as follows: teaching
sport in kindergartens, serving sandwiches in
casinos, catching footballs, juggling bottles,
washing dishes, reviewing music, changing
nappies, and walking on stilts.
has also lived in London, Melbourne,
Sydney, Queensland, the Channel Islands,
the Canary Islands, Nashville, and
Newcastle-upon-Tyne (he’s not very good at
staying still).
Adam has had over thirty jobs (he’s not a very
loyal employee either). Some of the things
he’s been paid to do are as follows: teaching
sport in kindergartens, serving sandwiches in
casinos, catching footballs, juggling bottles,
washing dishes, reviewing music, changing
nappies, and walking on stilts.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
December 30, 2021
Oh, wow.
This was published a month ago, and I have the privilege as of this writing (30 December 2021) to be the first to leave not only a rating but also a review. I won't quite do it justice.
This was laugh-out-loud funny. I was worried my roommates would question my sanity. I do have some questions of provenance (some items are 100% factual, some items are 100% nonsense, and some items I 100% can't tell the difference--which is precisely the author's wheelhouse). Hard to say how the humor holds up upon repeated readings, but this is lots of linguistic fun.
Read on Hoopla.
This was published a month ago, and I have the privilege as of this writing (30 December 2021) to be the first to leave not only a rating but also a review. I won't quite do it justice.
This was laugh-out-loud funny. I was worried my roommates would question my sanity. I do have some questions of provenance (some items are 100% factual, some items are 100% nonsense, and some items I 100% can't tell the difference--which is precisely the author's wheelhouse). Hard to say how the humor holds up upon repeated readings, but this is lots of linguistic fun.
Read on Hoopla.
February 14, 2023
This book was incredibly entertaining and suprisingly profound for a book of lists. Here is my review:
1. It made me think.
2. It made me laugh out loud.
3. I'm not as good at making lists as this author is.
1. It made me think.
2. It made me laugh out loud.
3. I'm not as good at making lists as this author is.
December 12, 2023
In a time where sharing lists from your notes app has become like card trading, this book was just what you may need to cheer yourself up with. Witty, informative, and certainly will be used as conversational footnotes. ( doing just 4 stars because I’m a gen Z and some lines were too millennial for me. )
March 12, 2023
DNF. This is a classic case of a book with humor that doesn't work for me.
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April 1, 2025Book Review: Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats: And Other Meticulously Assembled Lists of Extremely Valuable Nonsense by Adam Sharp
Adam Sharp’s Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats presents an engaging exploration of language through the lens of humor, meticulously compiling a variety of euphemisms and absurd categorizations that reflect the quirks of human expression. This book serves not only as a humorous reprieve but also as a commentary on the complexities of communication in contemporary society.
Content Overview
The book is structured around a series of lists that tackle different euphemisms, idioms, and phrases that people use to navigate sensitive topics. Sharp’s keen eye for detail allows him to curate categories that evade the mundane and elevate the everyday. The title itself plays with the concept of euphemisms by replacing an explicit term with a playful phrase, setting the tone for the lighthearted yet insightful analysis that follows.
Style and Tone
Sharp’s writing style is accessible and engaging, blending wit with a thoughtful critique of language’s role in society. His tone is conversational, often inviting readers to reflect on their own use of language. This makes the work suitable for a broad audience, from linguistics enthusiasts to casual readers interested in the whimsical facets of communication.
Themes and Insights
One of the book’s central themes is the idea that language, while intended to clarify, often complicates communication. Sharp examines how euphemisms can serve both protective and deceptive purposes, highlighting the tension between honesty and social nicety. This exploration prompts readers to consider the implications of their own linguistic choices, fostering a deeper awareness of how words can shape perceptions and interactions.
Reception and Impact
The response to Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats has been largely positive, with readers appreciating its humor and insightful commentary. Critics have noted its potential as a tool for educators in discussing language and its societal implications, making it relevant not just as entertainment but as a resource for language studies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Adam Sharp’s Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats is a clever and entertaining examination of the eccentricities of language. Its meticulously assembled lists of euphemisms offer both humor and depth, making it a valuable addition to the discourse on communication. Readers will find themselves laughing while also reflecting on the nuances of the words they choose, ultimately appreciating the playful absurdity of human expression.
This book is recommended for anyone interested in linguistics, communication, and the lighter side of language use, ensuring lasting enjoyment and insight.
Adam Sharp’s Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats presents an engaging exploration of language through the lens of humor, meticulously compiling a variety of euphemisms and absurd categorizations that reflect the quirks of human expression. This book serves not only as a humorous reprieve but also as a commentary on the complexities of communication in contemporary society.
Content Overview
The book is structured around a series of lists that tackle different euphemisms, idioms, and phrases that people use to navigate sensitive topics. Sharp’s keen eye for detail allows him to curate categories that evade the mundane and elevate the everyday. The title itself plays with the concept of euphemisms by replacing an explicit term with a playful phrase, setting the tone for the lighthearted yet insightful analysis that follows.
Style and Tone
Sharp’s writing style is accessible and engaging, blending wit with a thoughtful critique of language’s role in society. His tone is conversational, often inviting readers to reflect on their own use of language. This makes the work suitable for a broad audience, from linguistics enthusiasts to casual readers interested in the whimsical facets of communication.
Themes and Insights
One of the book’s central themes is the idea that language, while intended to clarify, often complicates communication. Sharp examines how euphemisms can serve both protective and deceptive purposes, highlighting the tension between honesty and social nicety. This exploration prompts readers to consider the implications of their own linguistic choices, fostering a deeper awareness of how words can shape perceptions and interactions.
Reception and Impact
The response to Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats has been largely positive, with readers appreciating its humor and insightful commentary. Critics have noted its potential as a tool for educators in discussing language and its societal implications, making it relevant not just as entertainment but as a resource for language studies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Adam Sharp’s Euphemisms That Get on My You-Know-Whats is a clever and entertaining examination of the eccentricities of language. Its meticulously assembled lists of euphemisms offer both humor and depth, making it a valuable addition to the discourse on communication. Readers will find themselves laughing while also reflecting on the nuances of the words they choose, ultimately appreciating the playful absurdity of human expression.
This book is recommended for anyone interested in linguistics, communication, and the lighter side of language use, ensuring lasting enjoyment and insight.
April 20, 2024
This was the most fun I've gotten out of a book in a while. It was so easy to dip in and out of. It was a funny and Informative book of lists and I'm kind of sad it's over. Looking forward to more books and more hot cross puns.
October 10, 2024
An irreverent and sometimes hilarious book of lists. The author is very creative with his irreverence. The book came close to becoming overly repetitive, but he changes it up just enough to prevent that from happening - at least for me.
February 22, 2022
Cute word humor
May 14, 2022
Lists of various offbeat things people say and do around the world. A fun idea that wears out its welcome if you attempt to read the whole thing in one sitting. I wanted something more from this.
June 9, 2022
Brilliant and hilarious. One of the funniest books I’ve ever read.
June 16, 2022
I follow Adam Sharp on Twitter and he’s the highlight of my day. This book is a total delight!
December 23, 2022
My review of this book can be found on my YouTube Vlog at:
https://youtu.be/gjHqxxCj4Wk
Enjoy!
https://youtu.be/gjHqxxCj4Wk
Enjoy!
January 24, 2023
Very entertaining
February 10, 2024
Clever, funny, informative
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews