Learn
Watch & LearnLearning Paths
Daily EnglishSocial EnglishProfessional EnglishVOA English
Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Learn phrases for unrealistic thinking, films, presenting an idea, and getting approval for a project.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“La-la land” can mean a dreamy or unrealistic state, and Los Angeles is also nicknamed La La Land. The “silver screen” means movies or cinema. To “pitch” an idea is to present it briefly in order to gain support. If a project gets the “green light,” it has received approval. The phrase “make the big time,” already covered in another guide, is omitted.
Cultural note: Calling someone “in la-la land” can dismiss their concerns or imply they are out of touch; describe the specific gap between a plan and reality instead. “Pitch” and “green light” are common workplace language, but a pitch is not a promise and approval is not a guarantee of success.
Keep exploringMovie-industry language travels into everyday conversations about ideas, support, and unrealistic expectations.
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 a nickname and a phrase for unrealistic thinking.
Meaning
A dreamy, unserious, or unrealistic state; also a nickname for Los Angeles.
Tone & use
Informal and potentially dismissive when used about another person. Use “unrealistic” or explain the specific concern in careful settings.
Example
“The budget plan sounded like la-la land until the group added realistic staffing and costs.”
Understand a figurative term for movies.
Meaning
Movies or the cinema, especially as an art form or industry.
Tone & use
Figurative and somewhat literary; “film” or “movies” is more direct.
Example
“She wrote music for the silver screen after years of composing for live theater.”
Describe presenting a proposal and receiving permission to proceed.
Meaning
Present an idea briefly to persuade someone to support or fund it.
Tone & use
Common in business and creative work. Be clear about the proposal, evidence, and what support is requested.
Example
“The student pitched an idea for a shared tool library to the neighborhood council.”
Meaning
An important opportunity that may help someone advance.
Tone & use
Often associated with careers in entertainment, but it can refer to any field. An opportunity does not ensure success.
Example
“Being invited to present at the conference was a big break for the early-career researcher.”
Meaning
Approve a project so that it can move forward.
Tone & use
Informal and common at work; approval may still depend on later steps or resources.
Example
“The board green-lit the pilot after reviewing its cost and privacy plan.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
1 of 3