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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Learn phrases for a very small amount, careful budgeting, gathering money, and an occasional treat.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode is framed around a lottery story, but the lesson does not recommend gambling and omits several money expressions already taught elsewhere. It focuses instead on describing a small amount, careful spending, gathering limited funds, and choosing to buy something special.
Cultural note: The source uses a fictionalized lottery win to introduce expressions; it should not be read as evidence that lottery tickets are a reliable financial strategy. “Chicken feed” can belittle a small payment, so use neutral wording when discussing someone’s wages or needs.
Keep exploringEveryday money phrases can describe careful habits or spending choices—but they are language, not financial advice.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
A dismissive phrase for something worth very little.
Meaning
A very small amount of money, or something considered to have little value.
Tone & use
Informal and dismissive. Avoid using it to minimize someone’s pay or the importance of an amount to them.
Example
“The old phone sold for chicken feed, so Lena donated it instead of trying to resell it.”
Describe using money cautiously.
Meaning
Be very careful about spending money.
Tone & use
Can describe practical budgeting, but may imply that someone is overly cheap. It does not explain why they are saving.
Example
“We pinched pennies for a few months to afford the class materials without using credit.”
Talk about assembling a little money or buying an occasional extra.
Meaning
Gather money or resources with difficulty, often from several small amounts.
Tone & use
Often followed by an amount or resource. It can suggest limited means, so avoid making assumptions about someone’s finances.
Example
“The neighbors scraped together enough money to replace the damaged community-center heater.”
Meaning
Spend more than usual on something enjoyable or special.
Tone & use
Informal. It can be a planned treat, but is not automatically a wise or unwise choice.
Example
“After finishing the certificate, he splurged on a dinner with his family.”
Meaning
Pay for a cost or expense, sometimes on behalf of other people.
Tone & use
Common in everyday and workplace conversation. The context should make clear who agreed to pay.
Example
“The host offered to foot the bill for lunch, but everyone else preferred to split it.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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