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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about spending carefully and making ends meet, while using financial hardship language with care.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode uses “on a shoestring” for doing something with very little money. It also explains “get by,” “living paycheck to paycheck,” “living hand-to-mouth,” and “travel on a shoestring.” These expressions describe different degrees and contexts of limited money.
Cultural note: Paycheck-to-paycheck and hand-to-mouth can describe serious financial stress; avoid applying them casually to other people or treating hardship as a clever travel hack. The lesson is about vocabulary, not financial advice.
Keep exploringA small budget can mean careful planning, but it can also mean genuine hardship. Practise describing the situation accurately and respectfully.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe doing an activity with little money available.
Meaning
With very little money available for a particular activity or purpose.
Tone & use
Common in “on a shoestring budget.” It can describe a project or trip; use care when the topic is someone’s financial hardship.
Example
“The student group organized the neighborhood concert on a shoestring.”
Talk about having just enough for essentials.
Meaning
Manage to live or continue with only what is necessary.
Tone & use
Often used about managing despite limited money, time, or resources.
Example
“During the short contract, Eli used savings to get by until the next job began.”
Meaning
Use most or all of each paycheck to cover expenses before the next one arrives.
Tone & use
Describes a financially stressful pattern. Avoid using it as a lighthearted label for someone else.
Example
“After rent increased, they found it harder to save and began living paycheck to paycheck.”
Meaning
Have barely enough money for immediate basic needs.
Tone & use
A serious expression that can sound judgmental. Prefer neutral, specific wording when describing another person’s circumstances.
Example
“The report describes families forced to live hand to mouth after losing steady work.”
Explain ways people reduce trip expenses.
Meaning
Travel while spending very little money.
Tone & use
Usually about keeping travel costs low; it does not imply that every low-cost option is safe or suitable.
Example
“They traveled on a shoestring by visiting in the off-season and staying with friends.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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