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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Describe personal taste and express differences without judging what other people enjoy.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis story presents expressions for the fact that people value different things. An object one person discards may be special to someone else, and two people can prefer very different ways to spend their time.
Cultural note: “One person’s trash is another person’s treasure” can be affectionate, but it may sound dismissive if you call something another person loves “trash.” “Different strokes for different folks” and “to each their own” are useful ways to acknowledge preferences more gently.
Keep exploringA faded chair, a loud concert, or a quiet night with a book: people don’t all treasure the same things. Practise talking about different tastes without putting them down.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Acknowledge that people enjoy different things.
Meaning
Different people prefer different things or ways of living.
Tone & use
Informal and often light-hearted. The set phrase uses “folks,” not “people.”
Example
“My sister loves camping, while I prefer a hotel—different strokes for different folks.”
Meaning
Everyone is entitled to their own preferences.
Tone & use
Common and conversational. Tone matters: it can sound accepting or slightly dismissive.
Example
“I wouldn’t choose a bright orange sofa, but to each their own.”
Meaning
Whatever makes you happy or suits your preference.
Tone & use
Very informal and friendly among people you know. It may sound dismissive if said with a sarcastic tone.
Example
“You can read on the train or listen to music—whatever floats your boat.”
Meaning
People have many different personalities, tastes, or ways of doing things.
Tone & use
Often used as a short form of “It takes all kinds to make the world go round.” Depending on tone, it can sound accepting or judgmental.
Example
“Some people love getting up before dawn to run. It takes all kinds!”
Explain how something unwanted by one person can matter to another.
Meaning
Something one person considers worthless may be highly valued by someone else.
Tone & use
A familiar saying about different tastes and values. It can refer to secondhand objects, art, hobbies, or ideas.
Example
“I was ready to donate the old record player, but a collector wanted it—one person’s trash is another person’s treasure.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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