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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Compare familiar sayings while noticing when they oversimplify relationships or money.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode presents familiar American proverbs, including sayings about saving, love, distance, appearance, and behavior. A proverb is a short saying that offers a general belief, not a rule that fits every person or situation. The article connects several sayings to Benjamin Franklin and Poor Richard’s Almanac, while some statements reflect older gender expectations.
Cultural note: Proverbs can be memorable but oversimplify complicated realities. “All is fair in love and war” does not excuse harm or disregard for consent; “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” reflects a dated gender stereotype. Treat sayings as cultural expressions, not universal advice.
Keep exploringSome proverbs give opposite advice about distance, while others turn money, love, and character into a single line. Compare them without assuming one saying tells the whole truth.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Recognize a saying that encourages saving without treating it as financial advice.
Meaning
Saving money can be as valuable as earning the same amount.
Tone & use
A traditional proverb, not a complete financial plan; it does not account for income, expenses, or access to resources.
Example
“I packed lunch this week because a penny saved is a penny earned, but I’m also checking whether my budget covers rent and bills.”
Compare different beliefs about being apart from someone.
Meaning
Being apart from someone can make you appreciate or miss them more.
Tone & use
A hopeful saying, not a prediction; distance affects people and relationships differently.
Example
“After a semester abroad, they were glad to see each other again—perhaps absence had made the heart grow fonder.”
Meaning
People may stop thinking about something or someone when they are no longer present.
Tone & use
Can describe forgetfulness or distance, but may sound dismissive when discussing an important relationship.
Example
“I keep the library books by the door so they won’t be out of sight, out of mind.”
Notice when a saying looks beyond physical appearance.
Meaning
Physical appearance is less important than a person’s character.
Tone & use
A familiar proverb that can sound moralizing; focus on specific qualities instead of judging someone’s looks.
Example
“The story reminds readers that beauty is only skin deep and kindness matters too.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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