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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Explore several different meanings of “blue,” while avoiding assumptions about color and emotion.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode explores how “blue” appears in expressions for sadness, loyalty, high quality, rarity, and unexpected news. The same color can suggest different ideas in different phrases. The phrase “blue mind” is presented as a coined expression, not a clinical term or a proven effect that everyone experiences near water.
Cultural note: Color associations vary between people and cultures; do not assume someone’s feelings from a color metaphor. “Blue chip” is also used in business and investing, but this language page is not financial advice. Word-origin explanations in short idiom stories are summaries, not definitive historical research.
Keep exploringOne color can point to very different ideas. The surrounding words help you tell whether “blue” means sad, trustworthy, excellent, rare, or surprising.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe sadness or unexpected news with color expressions.
Meaning
Feel sad or low in mood.
Tone & use
Informal and figurative. It is not a diagnosis; use more direct, considerate language if someone describes serious distress.
Example
“I had the blues after my friend moved away, so we planned a weekly call.”
Meaning
A sudden, unexpected event, usually an unpleasant one.
Tone & use
Often describes surprising news. It is figurative, not a literal weather report.
Example
“The announcement that the venue had closed came as a bolt from the blue.”
Recognize phrases for loyalty and excellence.
Meaning
Loyal, dependable, and faithful.
Tone & use
Usually describes a person, friend, or supporter. It can sound warm or a little old-fashioned.
Example
“Even when the project became difficult, her true-blue colleagues stayed to help.”
Meaning
Excellent or among the best.
Tone & use
Often used before a noun, such as “a blue-ribbon panel” or “a blue-ribbon restaurant.”
Example
“The town’s blue-ribbon bakery won praise for its careful service and fresh bread.”
Talk about something that happens infrequently.
Meaning
Very rarely.
Tone & use
An informal way to describe something infrequent. It usually does not refer to a literal moon event.
Example
“We only all have the same free evening once in a blue moon.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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