Learn
Watch & LearnLearning Paths
Daily EnglishSocial EnglishProfessional EnglishVOA English
Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use sports metaphors to talk about effort, pacing, and sustainable progress.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode uses sprinting and marathon running as metaphors for different approaches to work and goals. It includes expressions for pacing yourself, staying in something for the long haul, and losing steam. People and projects differ; a fast pace is not automatically better, and rest is part of sustainable effort.
Cultural note: The sports metaphors describe approaches, not fixed personality types or moral qualities. Avoid equating constant work with success or treating exhaustion as admirable. Choose a pace that fits the task, available support, and a person’s well-being.
Keep exploringSome tasks call for a quick burst; others need steady effort. These expressions help explain the difference without glorifying burnout.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a short burst of activity or steady progress.
Meaning
A short period of fast, intense effort; literally, a short race run at high speed.
Tone & use
Figuratively, it can describe a brief push toward a deadline. It is not a good model for every kind of work.
Example
“The final two days before the exhibition were a sprint, so the team planned a lighter week afterward.”
Meaning
Control how quickly or intensely you work so you can continue.
Tone & use
Often used as friendly advice for a long event or demanding task.
Example
“There are several sections in the exam, so pace yourself and leave time to review.”
Talk about sustained effort and gradual progress.
Meaning
An approach that emphasizes steady effort over a long period.
Tone & use
Useful for describing a long project. It does not mean working nonstop; pacing and breaks help sustain effort.
Example
“Writing a thesis takes a marathon mentality, with regular milestones and time to rest.”
Describe when energy drops and why pacing matters.
Meaning
Gradually lose energy, enthusiasm, or momentum.
Tone & use
Informal. It can describe a person, plan, or project; it need not imply laziness.
Example
“The campaign began enthusiastically but lost steam when volunteers lacked support.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
1 of 3
