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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Describe mixed situations, minor irritations, and difficult circumstances without exaggerating them.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode uses roses and thorns to explain expressions for the unpleasant side of something: “every rose has its thorns,” “a thorn in your side,” and “a bed of thorns.” The contrast is “a bed of roses,” a comfortable or pleasant situation.
Cultural note: These are figurative expressions, and “a thorn in your side” often suggests an irritating but manageable problem. Do not use it to minimize a serious hardship; choose direct language when someone needs support.
Keep exploringA good opportunity can still come with costs or frustrations. Practise acknowledging both sides while keeping the scale of the problem accurate.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Acknowledge that something good can still have a downside.
Meaning
Even something pleasant or attractive can have an unpleasant side.
Tone & use
A proverb-like expression that encourages realistic expectations; it should not be used to dismiss serious harm.
Example
“The apartment has a beautiful view, but every rose has its thorns: the heating is expensive.”
Meaning
A comfortable, easy, or pleasant situation.
Tone & use
Often appears in the negative—“not a bed of roses”—to emphasize difficulty.
Example
“Starting a new school was not a bed of roses, but a welcoming teacher helped.”
Describe a small, recurring annoyance.
Meaning
A small, persistent problem or irritation.
Tone & use
Usually for an annoying but not overwhelming issue. Avoid using it for someone’s serious hardship.
Example
“The printer’s habit of jamming became a thorn in the office’s side.”
Meaning
Follow a line of thought or discussion that may lead away from the main point.
Tone & use
The source uses it as a wordplay transition. In common usage, “lead someone down the garden path” can mean mislead them, so note the context.
Example
“I could explain the history of the flower, but I don’t want to lead you down the garden path—we’re here to compare the two plans.”
Talk about an unpleasant situation someone may face.
Meaning
A painful, difficult, or unpleasant situation.
Tone & use
A strong image for a tough circumstance. Use plain, empathetic language when discussing trauma or urgent problems.
Example
“Without stable housing, each day felt like a bed of thorns for the family.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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