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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Tell the difference between playful trouble, dishonest activity, and a very enjoyable event.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptA “barrel of monkeys” describes something or someone very fun. “Monkey around” means goof around or make playful trouble, while “monkey business” usually suggests dishonesty or suspicious activity. The article also distinguishes “fun” (enjoyable) from “funny” (causing laughter).
Cultural note: “A barrel of monkeys,” “a hoot,” and “monkey around” are informal. “Monkey business” is more serious because it suggests dishonesty. The source notes that “a hoot” can sound regional or rural in some U.S. contexts.
Keep exploringMonkeys appear in phrases about fun and mischief—but “monkey business” can signal something dishonest. Context makes the difference.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a person or activity that is especially enjoyable.
Meaning
A very fun activity or an amusing person.
Tone & use
Informal and playful. The source also mentions “a hoot” as another informal way to describe something enjoyable.
Example
“The kids’ science fair was a barrel of monkeys, even for the adults helping out.”
Meaning
“Fun” means enjoyable; “funny” means amusing or likely to make someone laugh.
Tone & use
They overlap sometimes, but are not interchangeable in every sentence: an enjoyable day can be fun without being funny.
Example
“The trip was fun, and the guide’s story about the lost suitcase was funny.”
Meaning
A very amusing or enjoyable person or thing.
Tone & use
Informal. The VOA author describes it as regional or rural in some U.S. speech; listeners may know it but not use it often.
Example
“The storyteller was a hoot, and everyone stayed after dinner to hear another story.”
Talk about silly behavior that can become distracting.
Meaning
Goof around or behave playfully instead of acting seriously.
Tone & use
Informal. It can mean harmless joking, but the behavior may cause trouble or injury if people are careless.
Example
“Please stop monkeying around near the wet floor.”
Recognize when “monkey business” implies wrongdoing.
Meaning
Dishonest, suspicious, or improper activity.
Tone & use
Often critical. It is stronger than harmless joking and may imply cheating or deception.
Example
“The auditors checked the receipts carefully to make sure there was no monkey business.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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