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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand familiar sayings about sleep, food, and health without treating them as medical advice.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode explains sayings such as “the early bird gets the worm,” “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and “you are what you eat.” It also covers “a clean bill of health” and “a picture of health,” which can refer to looking healthy.
Cultural note: These are sayings, not reliable medical guidance or guarantees. The source itself notes that people have different sleep schedules and that even people who take good care of themselves can become ill. “A clean bill of health” can also describe a non-medical system that has been checked and found to be in good condition.
Keep exploringEnglish uses birds, apples, and doctors to talk about daily habits. Learn what these expressions suggest—and what they do not promise.
Phrase guide · 6 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Talk about preparation, timing, and sleep routines.
Meaning
A person who arrives or acts early may have the best chance to succeed.
Tone & use
A proverb about being early or prepared. It is not a guarantee that early action always leads to success.
Example
“We arrived before the doors opened because the early bird gets the worm.”
Meaning
A saying that recommends going to sleep and waking up early.
Tone & use
Often quoted as part of the longer proverb about becoming healthy, wealthy, and wise. It is a traditional saying, not a rule that fits everyone’s schedule.
Example
“My grandmother followed an early-to-bed, early-to-rise routine.”
Recognize sayings that encourage healthy choices.
Meaning
A humorous or encouraging saying about eating well and staying healthy.
Tone & use
Usually used lightly; it does not mean that apples prevent illness or replace medical care.
Example
“He packed fruit for a snack and joked, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.””
Meaning
The food you eat can affect your health or how you feel.
Tone & use
A proverb-like reminder about diet. It may also be used critically about someone’s food choices.
Example
“She chose a balanced lunch and said, “You are what you eat.””
Describe a person’s appearance or a system’s status.
Meaning
A report that someone is healthy, or that something has been checked and is in good condition.
Tone & use
Often used after a medical examination; it can also describe a system or organization after a review.
Example
“The mechanic inspected the car and gave it a clean bill of health.”
Meaning
Someone who looks very healthy and well.
Tone & use
An observation about appearance, not a medical diagnosis. It is often used in friendly conversation.
Example
“After a restful vacation, she looked like a picture of health.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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