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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand playful winter imagery and practical phrases for cold days.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptJack Frost is a personification of winter used in stories, poems, and seasonal language. The episode connects that character with expressions for biting cold, a short period of very low temperatures, and dressing warmly.
Cultural note: Jack Frost is a folkloric character, often imagined as a playful figure whose touch leaves frost on windows or noses. “Nipping at your nose” is a familiar line from the U.S. holiday song “The Christmas Song,” so the phrase can sound cozy and seasonal as well as cold.
Keep exploringEnglish sometimes turns cold weather into a character. Learn when the image is playful and when a plain weather phrase is clearer.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Recognize the playful personification used in seasonal language.
Meaning
It is very cold outside, especially in a vivid or playful seasonal description.
Tone & use
Literary, playful, and associated with winter and holiday language; not a weather forecast phrase.
Example
“We hurried from the café because Jack Frost was nipping at our noses.”
Meaning
A beautiful, often snow-covered winter scene.
Tone & use
Positive and often poetic or promotional; it emphasizes beauty, not dangerous weather.
Example
“After the overnight snow, the park looked like a winter wonderland.”
Useful phrases for temperatures and dressing for winter.
Meaning
A short period of unusually cold weather.
Tone & use
Common in weather reports and everyday conversation.
Example
“A cold snap is expected this weekend, so the farmers are protecting the young plants.”
Meaning
To put on warm clothing, often several layers.
Tone & use
Common informal advice before going out in cold weather.
Example
“Bundle up before you wait for the bus—the wind is strong today.”
Meaning
To become very ill from being exposed to cold weather.
Tone & use
An exaggerated, old-fashioned warning, often said humorously; cold itself does not directly cause every illness.
Example
“Take a coat—you’ll catch your death of cold waiting out there.”
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