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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about reliable routines, punctual people, and well-organized events.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis story uses clocks and watches to describe dependable patterns and systems that operate smoothly. Some expressions describe a person’s habits; others praise how a process runs.
Cultural note: “You can set your watch by it” is often admiring, but it can also tease someone for being extremely predictable. Keep the tone warm if you use it about a person.
Keep exploringA routine can be so regular that it seems timed by a clock. Explore a few ways to describe punctual people and smooth-running plans.
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 something or someone that follows a dependable pattern.
Meaning
Know that something happens at a very regular or predictable time.
Tone & use
Can describe a dependable routine or a person who is almost always punctual. It may be lightly teasing if someone is extremely predictable.
Example
“The bakery opens its patio at nine every Saturday; you could set your watch by it.”
Meaning
Someone who prefers doing familiar things in a regular way.
Tone & use
Usually lighthearted. It does not necessarily mean the person refuses all change.
Example
“I’m a creature of habit: I take the same walking route before work.”
Talk about plans and systems that work without problems.
Meaning
Work in a very smooth, orderly, and reliable way.
Tone & use
Often praises an event, process, or system. With an object between “run” and “like clockwork,” it can mean managing something smoothly.
Example
“With clear roles and a short checklist, the community fair ran like clockwork.”
Meaning
Without a problem or delay.
Tone & use
A common phrase for an event, trip, or process that goes as planned.
Example
“The online workshop began on time and finished without a hitch.”
Describe people who arrive when expected.
Meaning
At exactly the expected or scheduled time.
Tone & use
A straightforward, positive description of punctuality.
Example
“The shuttle arrived right on time, so we made the connection easily.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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