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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use sleep idioms to describe taking time to decide, choosing not to worry, and feeling on guard.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptSeveral sleep expressions describe how people handle decisions and worry. “Sleep on it” means waiting before deciding, while other phrases describe not worrying or remaining suspicious and alert.
Cultural note: “Sleep with one eye open” can suggest distrust or fear, not a healthy sleep habit. In a serious situation, describe the concern directly instead of using a dramatic idiom.
Keep exploringA night’s rest can change how a difficult choice feels. Explore expressions for waiting, worrying, and staying alert.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Delay a decision until you have had time to think.
Meaning
Wait until later—often until the next day—before making a decision.
Tone & use
A useful way to ask for time to consider an offer or problem. It does not require actively thinking all night.
Example
“The repair is expensive, so I’ll sleep on it and call the shop tomorrow.”
Say whether a problem is keeping you concerned.
Meaning
Not serious enough to cause a lot of worry.
Tone & use
Can reassure someone, but be careful not to minimize a concern that matters to them.
Example
“The typo is easy to correct; it is nothing to lose sleep over.”
Meaning
Worry a great deal about something.
Tone & use
Often exaggerated in everyday speech. It can describe worry without literally saying the speaker cannot sleep.
Example
“She was losing sleep over the move, so her friends helped her make a checklist.”
Meaning
Not sleep at all, or sleep very little.
Tone & use
A common exaggeration for a very restless night.
Example
“The baby’s first night at home was exciting, and I hardly slept a wink.”
Describe suspicion or difficulty relaxing.
Meaning
Stay watchful because you do not fully trust a person or situation.
Tone & use
A dramatic phrase suggesting suspicion or fear. Do not use it to joke about a real safety concern.
Example
“After several tools went missing, the crew felt they had to sleep with one eye open around the unlocked storage room.”
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