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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about ideas that make you think, change your perspective, or need time to consider.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptVOA explores food metaphors for thinking: an idea can give someone food for thought, open their eyes to a new possibility, or take time to digest. “Chew on” something is a more informal way to say you are considering it carefully.
Cultural note: These metaphors are natural in both casual and professional conversation. “Chew on that” can sound like a challenge or command, so “I’ll think it over” may feel warmer when responding to an offer or suggestion.
Keep exploringSome ideas are easy to accept right away; others need time to digest. Use these phrases to explain how a new thought affects you.
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 ideas or experiences that change how you see something.
Meaning
Help someone understand or notice something they had not seen before.
Tone & use
Common and conversational. The new understanding can be surprising, positive, or uncomfortable.
Example
“Volunteering at the shelter opened my eyes to how many families need temporary support.”
Meaning
Surprising in a way that gives you new understanding.
Tone & use
Usually placed before a noun or after “be.” It describes an experience, fact, or conversation.
Example
“The guided tour was eye-opening; I learned how the building was restored.”
Explain that you are thinking something through before deciding.
Meaning
An idea or information that should be considered carefully.
Tone & use
A common noun phrase used in casual, academic, and professional contexts. Often follows “give someone.”
Example
“The survey results gave the planning team food for thought before they chose a new schedule.”
Meaning
Think about and absorb information or an experience.
Tone & use
Neutral and suitable in formal or informal contexts. It suggests taking time to process what you have heard or learned.
Example
“The instructor shared a lot of feedback, so I needed a day to digest it.”
Meaning
Think carefully about an idea, question, or offer.
Tone & use
Informal. “Let me chew on it” is a casual way to ask for time before making a decision.
Example
“The job sounds interesting. Let me chew on the offer over the weekend.”
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