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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand expressions for influence, a competitive environment, unfair treatment, and focusing on essentials.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode connects money with influence and competition, then shifts to language for unfair treatment and practical decision-making. Some expressions are vivid metaphors rather than literal descriptions, so context matters.
Cultural note: “Money talks” can sound cynical because it suggests wealth brings influence. “Ripped off” is a serious accusation of being cheated; use it only when the facts support it. The historical origin offered for “brass tacks” is uncertain.
Keep exploringA business can feel like a jungle, but one direct question can bring a conversation back to the essentials.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Talk about money’s power or a challenging environment.
Meaning
Money can give a person or organization influence over decisions.
Tone & use
Often skeptical or critical; it can imply that people with wealth get more influence than others.
Example
“The small neighborhood group worried that money talks when large companies fund local campaigns.”
Meaning
A difficult, competitive environment that feels full of risks.
Tone & use
Informal and dramatic. Use it as a metaphor, not as a literal description of a place or group of people.
Example
“Starting a business can feel like a jungle out there, so the founders asked experienced owners for advice.”
Name unfair treatment carefully and bring a discussion to the main issue.
Meaning
Be cheated or charged unfairly.
Tone & use
Informal and accusatory. If you are unsure what happened, say “I think I may have been overcharged” instead.
Example
“Before saying they were ripped off, the customers compared the receipt with the posted price.”
Meaning
Move from general talk to the most practical or important details.
Tone & use
Informal and direct. It often signals that it is time to discuss specifics such as cost, timing, or responsibilities.
Example
“After a friendly introduction, the project team got down to brass tacks and agreed on a deadline.”
Knowledge check
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