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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about hopeful plans while acknowledging that an outcome is not confirmed yet.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe proverb “don’t count your chickens before they hatch” warns against treating an uncertain result as if it were already guaranteed. The episode explains the image through eggs that may not hatch and a fable about plans built on imagined future earnings. In daily conversation, it can be a gentle reminder to wait for confirmation before making big commitments.
Cultural note: The proverb can be practical, but it may sound dismissive if someone is excited or sharing good news. Pair it with empathy: celebrate the possibility, then make plans that can change if the result is different. The fable is a teaching story; the lesson is about uncertainty, not a reason to stop planning altogether.
Keep exploringA job interview went well, but no offer has arrived. How can a friend share the excitement while gently reminding the applicant to wait for written confirmation?
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Avoid making firm plans before an uncertain result is known.
Meaning
Do not assume that a hoped-for result will happen before it is certain.
Tone & use
A familiar proverb that can sound cautionary or teasing. Use it gently when someone is making definite plans based on an unconfirmed outcome.
Example
“We are excited about the grant interview, but let’s not count our chickens before they hatch.”
Meaning
Something considered certain to happen or succeed.
Tone & use
Often used casually, but a confident prediction is not a guarantee. The proverb warns against treating an uncertain plan this way.
Example
“The concert tickets are not a sure thing until the payment is confirmed.”
Stay hopeful without assuming everything will work out.
Meaning
Try not to expect a positive result too strongly when it is uncertain.
Tone & use
Can protect someone from disappointment, but may sound pessimistic or discouraging. Soften it by acknowledging why they are hopeful.
Example
“The package may arrive today, but don’t get your hopes up until the tracking page updates.”
Meaning
End in a successful or satisfactory way.
Tone & use
A common phrasal verb for how a situation turns out. It can refer to either a good or bad result, depending on context.
Example
“If the venue is unavailable, we will find another place and the evening can still work out.”
Use supportive phrases while a result is still pending.
Meaning
Hope that something good will happen.
Tone & use
Friendly and informal. It expresses hope, not certainty or control over the result.
Example
“Keep your fingers crossed that the last connection is on time.”
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