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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk sensitively about a long-running burden, a difficult problem, or a responsibility.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode contrasts playful monkey expressions with idioms for carrying a persistent problem or heavy responsibility.
Cultural note: “A monkey on someone’s back” can refer to addiction, poverty, or other serious hardship. It is vivid but may sound judgmental; when discussing a real person, use respectful, specific language and avoid reducing them to a problem.
Keep exploringSome monkey expressions are playful; others describe a heavy burden. Notice the difference in tone before using them about someone else.
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 lighthearted phrases about joking or fun.
Meaning
Behave playfully or waste time instead of taking something seriously.
Tone & use
Informal and often mildly critical. Context determines whether the behavior is harmless fun or disruptive.
Example
“We have ten minutes before guests arrive, so let’s stop monkeying around and set the table.”
Meaning
Extremely entertaining or enjoyable.
Tone & use
A playful, somewhat old-fashioned expression. Often used humorously or with exaggeration.
Example
“The board-game night was more fun than a barrel of monkeys.”
Talk about problems that are hard to resolve.
Recognition caution
Meaning
A persistent problem or burden that is difficult to resolve.
Tone & use
Can refer to serious hardship or addiction and may stigmatize someone if used casually. Prefer specific, respectful wording when discussing a real person.
Example
“The unresolved debt had become a heavy burden for the family.”
Potentially stigmatizing; use carefully about people.
Recognition caution
Meaning
Resolve or escape a persistent burden or problem.
Tone & use
Informal. In sensitive situations, it can oversimplify recovery or hardship; describe the support and steps involved instead.
Example
“With steady support and a manageable repayment plan, she began to address the debt that had weighed on her.”
Avoid suggesting a complex problem is easily solved.
Describe a burden that is difficult to carry.
Meaning
A serious responsibility or problem that feels like a heavy weight.
Tone & use
A vivid, usually negative expression. Use it for burdens, not for a person’s identity.
Example
“The expensive lease became a millstone around the small business’s neck.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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