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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Learn how written abbreviations and body-based phrases can communicate laughter, disbelief, uncertainty, or surprise.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“LOL” is a written abbreviation for laughing out loud; it is common in messages but can sound awkward if spoken as letters in ordinary conversation. “SMH” means “shaking my head” and often signals disbelief or disapproval online. In speech, shaking your head at something can show disbelief; a shrug may signal uncertainty, while raised eyebrows can show surprise or disapproval. A “nail-biter” is a tense, close contest; a “blowout” is a one-sided result. The lesson omits “throw your hands up,” already covered elsewhere.
Cultural note: Body language is context-dependent and should not be treated as a reliable way to read someone’s intentions. Eye-rolling may be seen as disrespectful, but facial movements alone do not establish what a person thinks. LOL and SMH are informal writing conventions; avoid assuming every reader interprets them the same way.
Keep exploringA head movement can mean agreement, disbelief, or uncertainty, while the same initials can feel natural in a text and odd out loud.
Phrase guide · 7 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Recognize informal abbreviations used in messages.
Meaning
An abbreviation for “laughing out loud,” used to show amusement in a message.
Tone & use
Very informal writing. Saying the letters aloud can sound unnatural in ordinary conversation.
Example
“She texted “LOL” after her brother sent a photo of the dog sleeping in a laundry basket.”
Meaning
An abbreviation for “shaking my head,” usually signaling disbelief, frustration, or disapproval.
Tone & use
Very informal online slang. Its tone can be unclear without context and may sound judgmental.
Example
“He replied “SMH” to the repeated schedule change, but later explained that he was frustrated rather than angry.”
Describe visible reactions without claiming they reveal a person’s full intent.
Meaning
React with disbelief, disappointment, or disapproval.
Tone & use
Tone and context matter; it does not reveal exactly what the person is thinking.
Example
“The audience shook their heads at the confusing announcement and waited for a clearer explanation.”
Meaning
Raise and lower your shoulders to show uncertainty, indifference, or lack of an answer.
Tone & use
A gesture can have different meanings. Ask a follow-up question instead of assuming the person does not care.
Example
“When I asked which route was faster, my colleague shrugged, so we checked the transit app.”
Meaning
Cause surprise, concern, or disapproval.
Tone & use
Often figurative; what counts as surprising or disapproving depends on the group and situation.
Example
“The sudden change to the meeting rules raised a few eyebrows among the staff.”
Compare two phrases for very different kinds of games or events.
Meaning
A close, tense contest or situation whose outcome is uncertain until near the end.
Tone & use
Often used positively about an exciting game, but can describe any suspenseful outcome.
Example
“The final set was a nail-biter, with both players saving match points.”
Meaning
A contest in which one side wins by a very large margin.
Tone & use
Informal, especially in sports. It contrasts with a close game; it does not necessarily describe how entertaining the event was.
Example
“The first match was close, but the rematch turned into a blowout by halftime.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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