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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Learn how visibility and authority can help someone draw attention to an issue.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode explains “bully pulpit” as a position of influence that gives someone a strong opportunity to speak publicly and encourage action. The phrase is especially associated with the U.S. presidency and Theodore Roosevelt’s use of “bully” to mean excellent or admirable.
Cultural note: Despite the modern meaning of “bully,” this historical expression does not mean bullying people. It refers to an influential platform; the phrase can be used critically if a person uses that visibility to lecture or pressure others. The lesson is about language and history, not support for a political position.
Keep exploringA large audience can help an idea travel—but influence also brings responsibility. Practise describing a public platform without confusing it with intimidation.
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 role that gives someone visibility and an audience.
Meaning
An influential position that provides a strong opportunity to speak publicly and promote ideas.
Tone & use
Most often used in political discussion, especially about the U.S. presidency. “Bully” here comes from an older positive sense meaning admirable or excellent; the idiom does not mean bullying.
Example
“As chair of the neighborhood council, she had a bully pulpit for drawing attention to safer streets.”
Meaning
Use public visibility or an audience to speak about an issue.
Tone & use
Common in media, arts, sports, and civic life. It can refer to a social-media audience or a formal role.
Example
“The athlete used her platform to encourage more girls to join local sports programs.”
Explain how a person can use visibility to promote an idea.
Meaning
Help more people learn about an issue or cause.
Tone & use
A common phrase in nonprofit, health, education, and public communication contexts.
Example
“The campaign raised awareness of free after-school tutoring in the district.”
Compare a broad audience with the power attached to a position.
Meaning
Communicate with or attract the attention of many people.
Tone & use
Neutral and useful for describing communication, media, events, and public messages.
Example
“A short radio interview helped the research team reach a wider audience.”
Meaning
Speak with influence that comes from a role, expertise, or responsibility.
Tone & use
Can describe expertise or official power. It does not guarantee that the speaker is correct, so consider the evidence too.
Example
“The inspector spoke from a position of authority about the building code, but shared the public report as well.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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