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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Tell the difference between calling a claim nonsense and describing overly persuasive flattery.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode compares two similar-sounding words. “Baloney” is informal language for something false, foolish, or not credible; “blarney” suggests smooth, persuasive talk, often flattery. The article also explains “pull the wool over someone’s eyes,” which means to deceive them.
Cultural note: “Baloney” is dismissive, so it is usually too blunt for formal disagreement. “Blarney” may be playful or skeptical, but it is not proof that someone is lying. The source’s folk explanations of word origins are presented as stories, not verified etymology.
Keep exploringTwo words that sound alike can criticize very different kinds of talk.
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Challenge a statement you believe is false or foolish.
Meaning
Informal language for something false, foolish, or not believable.
Tone & use
Dismissive and casual. In a professional discussion, say “I don’t think the evidence supports that” instead.
Example
“The ad claimed the battery lasted a month, but the test results showed that was baloney.”
Recognize smooth flattery or excuses that may not be sincere.
Meaning
Smooth, persuasive talk, often used to flatter or make an excuse sound convincing.
Tone & use
Informal and often skeptical, but not necessarily a claim of deliberate fraud.
Example
“The tour guide’s blarney made the long wait sound like part of the adventure.”
Describe misleading someone without relying on a disputed origin story.
Meaning
Deceive someone so they do not see what is really happening.
Tone & use
Informal. Use it when you have reason to believe someone was deliberately misled.
Example
“The contractor tried to pull the wool over the client’s eyes by hiding the extra fees.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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