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Processed with VS1Use selected business expressions for a favorable deal, a fast-selling product, and good timing.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe source is a vocabulary-rich story about selling a small business. This guide selects expressions not already taught in the collection, including “sweetheart deal,” “sell like hotcakes,” “gain ground,” and “strike while the iron is hot.” It omits repeated business phrases and does not present the story as current financial guidance.
Cultural note: Several phrases are informal metaphors, not precise business or legal terms. “Sweetheart deal” can imply a deal is unusually favorable, sometimes unfairly so; use neutral descriptions and disclose relevant terms when fairness matters.
Keep exploringBusiness idioms can describe a good deal, quick sales, progress, and the moment to act.
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 favorable arrangement or value for the money.
Recognition caution
Meaning
An agreement that is especially favorable to one side.
Tone & use
Can imply that the arrangement is unfair or improperly favorable. Explain the terms rather than relying on the label.
Example
“The city’s audit asked whether the contractor had received a sweetheart deal.”
This phrase can suggest favoritism or unfairness; do not use it as a factual accusation without evidence.
Meaning
Receive strong value or benefit for the amount of money spent.
Tone & use
Informal, especially in U.S. English. It is a subjective judgment; compare costs and results when precision matters.
Example
“The community center gets a lot of bang for its buck from the durable, shared equipment.”
Talk about quick sales and gradual improvement.
Meaning
Sell very quickly or in large numbers.
Tone & use
Informal and often positive. It is a colorful impression, not a precise sales figure.
Example
“The bakery’s seasonal apple pies sold like hotcakes at the weekend market.”
Meaning
Make progress or become more successful or influential.
Tone & use
Common in business, politics, sports, and everyday conversation. Name the area of progress when possible.
Example
“The neighborhood group gained ground after more residents joined its planning meetings.”
Recognize an expression about acting when conditions are favorable.
Meaning
Take action while conditions are favorable or an opportunity is fresh.
Tone & use
Informal advice. Acting quickly is not always wise; consider risks and gather enough information first.
Example
“Interest in the workshop was high, so the organizers struck while the iron was hot and scheduled another session.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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