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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Recognize terms for claimed psychic powers and distinguish them from ordinary observation or guessing.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode introduces “clairvoyance,” “sixth sense,” “second sight,” and “extrasensory perception” through a humorous exchange about predicting what people will say. These terms describe claimed paranormal abilities, while a person may also make a good guess from visible clues or prior experience. The lesson treats supernatural claims as claims, not established scientific facts.
Cultural note: People have different spiritual beliefs, but the terms themselves do not establish that psychic powers exist. In ordinary conversation, “I had a feeling” or “I guessed from the clues” can explain an accurate prediction without making a supernatural claim.
Keep exploringWhen someone seems to know what will happen, are they making a joke, reading familiar cues, or claiming a special power? The words signal different explanations.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Recognize vocabulary for paranormal claims without endorsing them.
Meaning
A claimed ability to know about distant or future events without ordinary information.
Tone & use
Usually appears in discussions of psychic or paranormal claims. The word describes the claim; it does not prove the ability exists.
Example
“The documentary examines claims of clairvoyance and asks what evidence supports them.”
Meaning
A claimed ability to see events or information beyond ordinary perception.
Tone & use
A literary or paranormal expression, often used humorously or skeptically.
Example
““You knew the surprise was coming—do you have second sight?” he joked.”
Describe a hunch or a good guess based on experience.
Meaning
An intuitive feeling or a claimed extra ability to perceive something.
Tone & use
Often used informally for a strong hunch, sometimes jokingly. It does not necessarily mean someone believes in psychic powers.
Example
“I had a sixth sense that we should check the weather before leaving.”
Meaning
Have a feeling that something may be true without being certain.
Tone & use
Common and conversational. A hunch is not the same as proof; check important assumptions.
Example
“I have a hunch the package was delivered next door, but I’ll confirm before I ask the neighbor.”
Explain how clues can support a prediction.
Meaning
Notice clues and use them to understand what may happen.
Tone & use
Can be literal or figurative. It describes observation and inference, not supernatural knowledge.
Example
“By reading the signs—the dark clouds and rising wind—we decided to move the picnic indoors.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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