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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand familiar rumor phrases while separating repeated claims from verified facts.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“There’s no smoke without fire” and “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” suggest that a rumor may contain some truth. The episode also uses “word on the street,” “rumor has it,” and “going under.” These phrases describe what people are saying; they do not prove that a claim is accurate.
Cultural note: The proverb can encourage caution, but rumors may be false, incomplete, or unfair—especially when they concern someone’s private life. Do not repeat damaging claims as facts without reliable evidence. In careful conversation, say that something is unconfirmed or that you have only heard a rumor.
Keep exploringWhen many people repeat a story, what is the difference between noticing a warning and treating gossip as proof?
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 sayings that connect repeated rumors with possible evidence.
Meaning
A saying that suggests a rumor or repeated claim may have some truth behind it.
Tone & use
A proverb, not proof. Use cautiously; repeating it can unfairly strengthen an unverified accusation.
Example
“Several staff members have mentioned budget cuts, but there’s no smoke without fire is still only a saying—we should confirm the facts.”
Meaning
A variation suggesting that rumors or warning signs may point to a real problem.
Tone & use
Often shortened to “where there’s smoke…” when listeners know the rest; it remains a suspicion, not evidence.
Example
“People keep reporting delays, but where there’s smoke, there’s fire does not tell us what actually happened.”
Report what people are saying without presenting it as verified fact.
Meaning
Informal talk or rumors circulating among people.
Tone & use
Very conversational; it signals hearsay rather than a confirmed announcement.
Example
“The word on the street is that the café may change owners, but nobody has confirmed it.”
Meaning
People are saying something, but it may not be confirmed.
Tone & use
Introduces hearsay; avoid using it to spread a harmful claim as though it were fact.
Example
“Rumor has it that the museum will extend its hours, though the official schedule is not out yet.”
Understand a phrase for a company nearing failure.
Meaning
Fail financially or collapse as a business.
Tone & use
Informal; often used about a company facing serious financial trouble.
Example
“The family feared the shop would go under after months of falling sales.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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