Achieving True Fluency in English

About the Book

This comprehensive guide is tailored for non-native English speakers, particularly those from Korea, Japan, and China. It aims to facilitate true linguistic proficiency by demystifying the complex idioms, metaphors, and non-literal phrasal verbs that often pose obstacles in various contexts—from daily social interactions to high-stakes business negotiations and diplomatic engagements. The book curates a collection of 250 expressive figures of speech, each elucidated with their etymologies, illustrative images, and applications, drawing on the wisdom of “百闻不如一见” (seeing once is better than hearing a hundred times). From a broader perspective, understanding these ‘figures of speech’ offers significant advantages. It enables readers to comprehend subtle messages and avoid embarrassing miscommunications. For speakers, using these expressions correctly means conveying complex ideas and emotions vividly and succinctly, enhancing storytelling with imagination and engagement. Additionally, adept use of these expressions can foster a deeper emotional and cultural connection with an audience. Readers will find that this handbook does more than enhance their basic English communication skills; it delves into the nuances of everyday dialogue, equips them to navigate socially delicate situations, and empowers them to be compelling in business and diplomatic discourse. Moreover, a familiarity with common figures of speech allows for a richer enjoyment of English-language media, literature, and pop culture. To make this resource widely accessible, especially to speakers of Korean, Chinese, and Japanese—who share a linguistic heritage—all entries are meticulously translated into these languages, ensuring a seamless learning experience.

About the Author

Yong S. Lee, a distinguished emeritus professor from Iowa State University, is widely celebrated for his seminal work, Reasonable Public Servant. With English as his second language, Professor Lee has passionately dedicated his retirement to the mastery and instruction of English rhetoric. His efforts are primarily channeled through his teachings at the KDI School of Public Management in South Korea, an esteemed OECD training hub for public servants hailing from emerging nations. Author of notable texts such as The Making of Argument and Mastering English Rhetoric, his works have significantly contributed to the understanding and acquisition of true fluency in English among non-native speakers across various domains, including social settings, the business sector, politics, and international diplomacy. A resident of San Diego, Professor Lee actively engages with his local community by penning a thought-provoking monthly column, Citizens’ English Forum, for San Diego Magazine. His column serves as a beacon for the Korean immigrant community, guiding them through the nuances of the English language. Alongside his professional pursuits, he enjoys a fulfilling personal life in the warm company of his wife.