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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Learn enemy-related expressions while separating an idiom’s dramatic tone from verified facts about a person.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode compares several ways to talk about an opponent and explores dramatic sayings about enemies. It notes that popular quotations can have uncertain origins, so the lesson treats the “friends close” line as a familiar saying rather than confidently assigning its authorship.
Cultural note: Enemy language can intensify conflict. These expressions are useful for understanding stories and rhetoric, but in everyday disagreements it is often better to name the specific action or competing position.
Keep exploringAn expression can sound like practical advice while carrying a very dramatic view of relationships.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Interpret well-known sayings without assuming they are literal advice.
Recognition caution
Meaning
A person may become an ally because both people oppose the same person or group.
Tone & use
A strategic saying, not proof that the two people truly trust or like one another.
Example
“The rival stores joined a neighborhood campaign against a proposed highway, acting on the idea that the enemy of my enemy is my friend.”
Shared opposition does not automatically mean shared values or lasting trust.
Recognize expressions that describe difficult relationships or setbacks.
Meaning
Said when a friend behaves in a way that feels harmful or unsupportive.
Tone & use
Sarcastic and pointed; it can damage a relationship if used directly instead of explaining what hurt you.
Example
“After her friend shared a private message, she said, “With a friend like that, who needs enemies?””
Meaning
Used to emphasize that an experience was extremely unpleasant.
Tone & use
Often hyperbolic. It communicates strong feeling rather than a literal list of enemies.
Example
“The overnight delay was exhausting; I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy.”
Choose a word for a person or challenge that is hard to overcome.
Recognition caution
Meaning
A persistent opponent or challenge that is especially difficult to defeat.
Tone & use
Dramatic and often playful in casual speech; for a real person, it may sound antagonistic.
Example
“The steep final hill was her nemesis during the charity ride.”
Can turn a disagreement into a personal rivalry; use a neutral description when appropriate.
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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