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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand animal-based verbs for avoiding a responsibility, pursuing someone, or repeatedly pressing a point.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe story turns animal names into verbs for avoiding a promise, refusing to release a subject, and persistently pursuing someone. The lesson distinguishes the force of these descriptions so that a learner can choose a neutral alternative when an idiom sounds accusatory.
Cultural note: “Weasel out” implies dishonesty, while “hound” and “badger” can suggest unwanted pressure. These are judgments about behavior; use specific, observable actions when fairness or precision matters.
Keep exploringIn English, an animal can become a vivid verb—but the image often adds a judgment about someone’s behavior.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Recognize phrases that suggest someone is dodging a commitment.
Recognition caution
Meaning
Avoid doing something you promised or are expected to do, often by using an excuse.
Tone & use
Informal and critical; it suggests evasiveness or dishonesty, not simply being unable to do a task.
Example
“He did not try to weasel out of the agreement; he explained the delay and proposed a new date.”
Implies bad faith; do not use it as a neutral synonym for canceling or rescheduling.
Meaning
Avoid accepting or carrying out a responsibility.
Tone & use
Informal. It may criticize someone for avoiding a duty, though it can also describe a deliberate choice not to engage.
Example
“The report assigned each follow-up task to a named person so no one could duck responsibility.”
Describe repeated requests or pursuit, with attention to tone.
Recognition caution
Meaning
Keep pursuing or questioning someone persistently.
Tone & use
Often negative when the repeated contact feels intrusive. A neutral alternative is “follow up repeatedly.”
Example
“Instead of hounding the supplier with daily calls, the coordinator agreed on one update time.”
Can describe pressure or harassment; consider whether repeated contact is welcome.
Meaning
Keep asking or urging someone, often until they feel pressured.
Tone & use
Informal and usually critical, though it can describe persistent but non-aggressive requests.
Example
“The child badgered his aunt for another story, so she asked him to choose one final book.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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