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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Learn expressions for feeling regret after speaking, remembering an unpleasant experience, and talking carelessly.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode connects mouth-related phrases with regret, unpleasant impressions, and excessive or disrespectful speech. The selected expressions help learners describe how words affect relationships and how an experience can shape someone’s view.
Cultural note: “Mouthy” is critical and may sound insulting, especially when used about a child or younger person. “Run your mouth” is also informal and judgmental; in a professional conversation, describe the specific behavior instead.
Keep exploringThe mouth is literal, but these expressions often describe the effect our words leave behind.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe sadness after a mistake or a lasting negative impression.
Meaning
Feeling sad or discouraged.
Tone & use
Informal and somewhat old-fashioned, but still understood. It describes someone’s mood or expression.
Example
“After the event was postponed, the volunteers looked down in the mouth until a new date was announced.”
Meaning
Create an unpleasant or negative impression that remains afterward.
Tone & use
Common figurative language. It describes a lasting reaction, not a literal flavor.
Example
“The unclear fees left a bad taste in customers’ mouths, even after the company corrected the bills.”
Informal, critical phrases for disrespectful or excessive talking.
Meaning
Speaking in a rude, argumentative, or disrespectful way.
Tone & use
Informal and insulting. Avoid labeling people this way in respectful or professional conversation; describe what they said instead.
Example
“Rather than call the student mouthy, the coach addressed the specific interruption and set a clear boundary.”
Meaning
Talk too much or say things carelessly, often in a way that causes trouble.
Tone & use
Very informal and judgmental. Avoid it in formal settings or when a neutral description is needed.
Example
“He ran his mouth about the surprise party, so everyone found out before the weekend.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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