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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Compare idioms about sensitivity, confidence, and surprise while avoiding careless judgments about people’s bodies or feelings.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptTo “fit like a second skin” describes clothing that fits very closely. Someone “comfortable in their own skin” accepts themself; “thick-skinned” and “thin-skinned” describe how strongly a person seems affected by criticism. To “jump out of your skin” is to be suddenly startled. The source also gives “get under someone’s skin” both an annoyance meaning and an older romantic meaning, so context matters.
Cultural note: “Thin-skinned” can be used to dismiss someone’s feelings, while “thick-skinned” can imply they should tolerate hurtful treatment. These are impressions, not diagnoses. Avoid “all skin and bones” as a casual comment about someone’s body; it can be hurtful and does not establish health. “Beauty is only skin deep,” covered in a separate lesson, is not repeated here.
Keep exploringSkin idioms can describe a close fit, a sudden fright, or how someone feels about themself—but they are not clinical labels.
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 clothing that fits very closely.
Meaning
Fit very closely and comfortably, especially about clothing.
Tone & use
Figurative and descriptive. It says nothing about the wearer’s body shape or health.
Example
“After a few rides, the new cycling gloves fit like a second skin.”
Recognize idioms about emotional reactions without labeling people.
Meaning
Not easily upset by criticism or unkind remarks.
Tone & use
Can be complimentary or dismissive. A person’s ability to tolerate criticism does not make hurtful treatment acceptable.
Example
“The experienced reviewer seemed thick-skinned, but the team still agreed to give feedback respectfully.”
Meaning
Easily hurt or offended by criticism or remarks.
Tone & use
Often critical and may dismiss someone’s feelings. Describe the interaction rather than diagnosing a person.
Example
“Instead of calling her thin-skinned, he asked whether his comment had sounded too harsh.”
Describe feeling at ease with who you are.
Meaning
Confident and accepting of yourself as you are.
Tone & use
Usually positive and supportive. It does not mean a person never feels uncertain.
Example
“After practicing the presentation several times, Noor felt more comfortable in her own skin on stage.”
Use a vivid phrase for being unexpectedly startled.
Meaning
Be startled suddenly and intensely.
Tone & use
Informal and often humorous; it describes a brief reaction to surprise or fright.
Example
“The doorbell rang while I was reading quietly and made me jump out of my skin.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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