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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use a vivid idiom for awkward or careless behavior, and choose a more respectful description when needed.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“A bull in a china shop” describes someone who behaves awkwardly or carelessly in a delicate setting and creates a mess. The episode distinguishes clumsy behavior that is accidental from behavior that is intentionally disruptive.
Cultural note: The phrase can sound insulting when applied to a person, especially someone with a disability, different movement style, or social anxiety. Describe the specific action and needed care instead of reducing someone to an idiom.
Keep exploringA mistake may be accidental, while its impact is still real. Practise describing the behavior and next step without making a fixed judgment about the person.
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 clumsy actions in a place where care is needed.
Meaning
A person who behaves carelessly or awkwardly in a delicate situation.
Tone & use
Vivid and often critical. It may be hurtful when used to label a person; describe the specific action instead.
Example
“I felt like a bull in a china shop carrying the fragile display, so I asked where it should go.”
Meaning
Moving or handling things awkwardly, or doing something without enough care.
Tone & use
Can describe movement, wording, or an action; it may sound judgmental when applied to a person.
Example
“My first attempt at the repair was clumsy, so I followed the manual more carefully.”
Talk about handling fragile objects or sensitive situations carefully.
Meaning
Treat something gently or approach a situation thoughtfully.
Tone & use
Used literally for fragile objects and figuratively for sensitive topics.
Example
“The glass pieces were marked “handle with care” before shipping.”
Meaning
Act or speak carefully to avoid causing harm or offense.
Tone & use
Often used about a sensitive conversation or uncertain situation.
Example
“When discussing the missed deadline, the supervisor tread lightly and asked what support was needed.”
Address an impact while giving clear, respectful feedback.
Meaning
Take action to repair harm or correct a mistake.
Tone & use
More formal than “make it right”; it focuses on addressing an impact.
Example
“After the mix-up, the organizer made amends by replacing the damaged supplies.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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