Sound Bites
Oxford dictionaries draw their strength from a constant monitoring of the language, and quotations from the daily torrent of words in the world around us, in print or on the air, are regularly added to our database. Our quarterly sound bites give a first view of sayings which have caught the public attention, and which might one day be added to one of our collections.
Sound bites: January-March 2009
Being funny is like being a bank. It's a confidence trick.
Evan Davis, English journalist and broadcaster, after trying his hand at being a stand-up comedian for charity
You might as well give Lord Cardigan a bonus for the charge of the Light Brigade.
Boris Johnson, British Conservative politician, on bonuses for bankers
In the joy of a new beginning, we ask you to help us work for that day when black will not be asked to get back, when brown can stick around - (laughter) - when yellow will be mellow - (laughter) - when the red man can get ahead, man - (laughter) - and when white will embrace what is right.
Joseph Lowery, American Methodist minister, at the inauguration of President Barack Obama
A man whose father less than 60 years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.
Barack Obama, American President, making his inaugural speech
The feeling among the judges was that there was a lot wrong with it. It was flawed in many ways; almost no-one liked its ending.
Matthew Parris, British journalist, chair of the Costa book award judges, on the winning novel The Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry
I have to admit that I am just too good to be true. I am just perfect.
Alan Sugar, English businessman
I'm so sorry Anne, Meryl, Kristin, and who's the other one?...Angelina.
Kate Winslet, English actress, on winning two Golden Globe awards
I'm the only woman who has not been beheaded for leaving the Royal family.
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