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Processed with VS1Learn how the symbol Rx is used and distinguish a few medicine-related expressions from medical advice.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe story discusses the Rx symbol and several expressions connected with medicine. “A taste of your own medicine” means experiencing treatment similar to what one has given others. “Stand someone up” means fail to meet them as arranged. “No-show” describes someone who does not arrive, while “make it up to someone” means try to compensate for disappointing them.
Cultural note: The article presents different proposed explanations for Rx; it does not establish one as certain. These are language examples, not medical instructions. “A taste of your own medicine” can sound like approval of retaliation, so describe the situation more neutrally when fairness or safety matters.
Keep exploringA familiar medical symbol leads to expressions about missed plans, apologies, and consequences—not instructions for treating illness.
Phrase guide · 6 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Separate a symbol’s use from uncertain stories about its origin.
Meaning
A symbol commonly used to refer to a prescription or a pharmacy.
Tone & use
Often seen on medical signs and prescription-related materials. It is not a medicine name.
Example
“The sign with Rx above the door showed where the neighborhood pharmacy was.”
Meaning
Watch or monitor someone or something.
Tone & use
Everyday and flexible; can mean supervise, protect, or check for changes.
Example
“Please keep an eye on the soup while I answer the door.”
Describe when someone does not arrive as expected.
Meaning
Fail to meet someone after arranging to meet, especially for a social date.
Tone & use
Informal; usually implies the person did not arrive and gave little or no notice.
Example
“They had dinner plans, but he stood her up and did not send a message.”
Meaning
A person who does not arrive for an expected appointment or event.
Tone & use
Common for appointments, reservations, and work shifts; the reason may be unknown.
Example
“One client was a no-show, so the clinic called to check whether they needed to reschedule.”
Talk about attempts to repair disappointment.
Meaning
An experience similar to the unpleasant way you have treated other people.
Tone & use
Can sound accusatory or approving of payback; use it carefully.
Example
“The manager disliked being interrupted after repeatedly cutting off the team, but calling it a taste of his own medicine did not help the meeting.”
Meaning
Do something to try to compensate someone for disappointing or inconveniencing them.
Tone & use
Often followed by “to” and a person; an apology may be part of the repair but does not guarantee forgiveness.
Example
“I missed the rehearsal, so I offered to help set up early and make it up to the group.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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