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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use body-part idioms to set a boundary, describe a self-defeating choice, and show that you are listening.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode groups familiar expressions around the nose and ears. This lesson selects phrases for setting a privacy boundary, describing a decision that backfires, and offering attentive listening. It omits phrases already used elsewhere in the collection.
Cultural note: “Keep your nose out of it” can sound blunt or hostile; use a direct, respectful boundary when possible. “Lend an ear” is supportive, but avoid promising more time or emotional capacity than you can offer.
Keep exploringEnglish often uses body-part images to talk about privacy, choices, and how we listen to one another.
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Ask someone not to interfere in a private matter.
Meaning
Avoid interfering in another person’s private matters.
Tone & use
Informal and often sharp. A gentler option is “I’d like to handle this privately.”
Example
“I know you want to help, but please keep your nose out of the dispute until we ask for advice.”
Describe an angry choice that harms the person making it.
Meaning
Take an action meant to hurt someone else that ends up harming you too.
Tone & use
An idiom for a self-defeating reaction, usually driven by anger. It is not a literal threat.
Example
“Refusing to use the shared study room just to annoy your roommate would cut off your nose to spite your face.”
Offer your attention to someone who wants to talk.
Meaning
Listen carefully and sympathetically to someone.
Tone & use
Warm and supportive. “I can listen for a few minutes” sets a clear limit if needed.
Example
“After the difficult meeting, Priya asked whether her colleague could lend her an ear.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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