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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand two animal proverbs and recognize when their implied power dynamics need care.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode contrasts “play cat and mouse,” a repeated power game in which one side withholds what the other wants, with “when the cat’s away, the mice will play,” a proverb about people changing their behavior when supervision is absent. Both expressions rely on unequal roles; use them to describe a situation, not to excuse manipulation or assume people need constant watching.
Cultural note: The proverb can normalize surveillance or portray children and employees as naturally misbehaving. Use it cautiously and describe the specific behavior instead of making assumptions about a group. “Play cat and mouse” describes a potentially manipulative dynamic, not a healthy relationship model.
Keep exploringThese cat-and-mouse sayings are about who has power and who is being watched. Their animal imagery can hide the social judgment underneath.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe an uneven game in which one side controls the options.
Meaning
Keep someone uncertain by repeatedly offering and withdrawing an opportunity, or engage in a prolonged chase.
Tone & use
Can describe a power imbalance and may sound critical. It is not a model for respectful communication.
Example
“The vendor stopped playing cat and mouse with the client and gave a clear delivery date.”
Meaning
A continuing contest involving pursuit, concealment, or shifting advantage.
Tone & use
Used in news, sport, and everyday life. Specify who is pursuing whom if the situation matters.
Example
“The negotiations became a cat-and-mouse game as each side waited for the other to make an offer.”
Understand a proverb about behavior changing when a supervisor leaves.
Meaning
People may behave differently or less carefully when the person supervising them is absent.
Tone & use
A proverb that may imply people cannot be trusted without oversight. Use it carefully rather than applying it to a whole group.
Example
“The staff joked about the proverb, then agreed to keep the same safety checklist whether or not a manager was present.”
Notice the assumptions an animal metaphor may carry.
Meaning
Behave in a disruptive or troublesome way; it can also describe a machine not working properly.
Tone & use
Informal and context-dependent. Be specific when speaking about a person so the phrase does not become a dismissive label.
Example
“The old printer acted up whenever the paper tray was nearly empty.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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