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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about dependable work, the people who support you, and what earns a living.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode follows several bread expressions from food to work and money. “Bread and butter” can mean a dependable source of income or the essential work that supports a person or business. “Know which side your bread is buttered on” describes awareness of who can help you, but can imply self-interest; “the best thing since sliced bread” is exaggerated praise.
Cultural note: The phrase “breadwinner” can sound dated or assume one person is responsible for a household’s income. “Know which side your bread is buttered on” can criticize someone as calculating. Choose more direct wording when you want to describe work or financial support without judgment.
Keep exploringBread is food in one phrase and a livelihood in another. The surrounding words show whether the speaker is talking about income, influence, or praise.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Name a reliable source of earnings or the main work a business does.
Meaning
A main or dependable source of income, or the essential part of a person’s work.
Tone & use
Often used as a possessive compound before a noun (“bread-and-butter work”) or with “is” to name the income source.
Example
“For the repair shop, servicing bicycles is its bread and butter.”
Meaning
A person who earns money that supports a household or family.
Tone & use
Understandable but sometimes dated or tied to assumptions about family roles; “earner” or “person supporting the household” can be more neutral.
Example
“Both partners are breadwinners, and they share the cost of caring for their family.”
Recognize who can provide help or opportunities—and the judgment that can carry.
Meaning
Understand who provides an advantage or support and act accordingly.
Tone & use
Can suggest shrewd self-interest or opportunism; it may sound critical rather than complimentary.
Example
“He was careful to thank the mentor who had recommended him, though a colleague joked that he knew which side his bread was buttered on.”
Use an exaggerated phrase to say something is excellent.
Meaning
Something considered exceptionally good or useful.
Tone & use
Informal and often humorous exaggeration; it can sound sarcastic if the tone is dry.
Example
“My neighbor thinks the new bus route is the best thing since sliced bread because it stops outside her office.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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