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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about a day when nothing goes right, a deceptive trick, and a kind action repaid.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis first episode in a two-part series explores expressions using the number one. The lesson selects a phrase for a frustrating day, a trick that misleads someone, and the idea of returning kindness. The source also describes alcohol and driving; that behavior is not endorsed, and this lesson does not repeat those drinking-related expressions.
Cultural note: “Pull a fast one” suggests dishonest behavior, so use it carefully when you do not have evidence. “One good turn deserves another” expresses reciprocity, but kindness should not be treated as a debt or obligation.
Keep exploringNumber expressions can turn an ordinary bad day or a small act of kindness into a memorable phrase.
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Name a day when many small things go wrong.
Meaning
A day when several frustrating or unfortunate things happen.
Tone & use
Informal and sympathetic. Often used to acknowledge that someone has had a difficult day.
Example
“The bus was late, the printer jammed, and I spilled coffee—it was one of those days.”
Describe an attempt to deceive someone.
Meaning
Trick or deceive someone, often with a quick or clever move.
Tone & use
Informal and accusatory. Avoid making this claim about a real person unless you can support it.
Example
“The seller tried to pull a fast one by advertising a used phone as brand new.”
Recognize a helpful act returned in kind.
Meaning
A kind or helpful action is worth returning with kindness.
Tone & use
A proverb about reciprocity. It should not imply that help creates a debt someone must repay.
Example
“She had helped him prepare for the interview, so he offered to review her application too—one good turn deserves another.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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