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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about fresh approaches and distinctive people while choosing words that fit the situation.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode begins with a literal mold that gives repeated objects the same shape, then explains “break the mold” as doing something in a completely new way. It can describe an innovative approach or an unusual, admired person.
Cultural note: “Break the mold” is usually praise for originality, but it can also simply mean someone is unusual. “Think outside the box” is a common alternative for creative problem-solving; “one of a kind” emphasizes uniqueness.
Keep exploringWhen everyone follows the usual pattern, a fresh approach can stand out. Practise describing what is genuinely new—and what is simply different.
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 a method that differs from the usual way.
Meaning
Do something in a completely new or different way.
Tone & use
Often complimentary when someone challenges a familiar pattern with a useful new idea.
Example
“Instead of another long report, the team broke the mold and shared its findings through a short interactive guide.”
Meaning
A new or different way of dealing with a situation.
Tone & use
A flexible, neutral phrase for work, study, or daily problems; less dramatic than “break the mold.”
Example
“The tutor tried a fresh approach by letting the learners choose the practice topics.”
Talk about creative thinking and unfamiliar possibilities.
Meaning
Consider ideas that are not limited to familiar methods.
Tone & use
Common in work and problem-solving contexts. It can sound clichéd if used without a specific example.
Example
“We thought outside the box and used the library courtyard for the community science fair.”
Describe someone whose qualities make them stand out.
Meaning
Unique; unlike anything or anyone else.
Tone & use
Can praise a person, object, experience, or design. It is more about uniqueness than changing a usual system.
Example
“The hand-painted sign is one of a kind; no two versions look exactly alike.”
Meaning
Be noticeably different or better than others nearby.
Tone & use
Can be positive, neutral, or negative depending on context. Explain what makes the person or thing noticeable.
Example
“Her clear examples made the proposal stand out from the other submissions.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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