Learn
Watch & LearnLearning Paths
English for Daily LifeEnglish for Social ConnectionEnglish for WorkVOA English
Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand colorful phrases about family traits, group belonging, money, and shared space.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe article groups expressions heard around families: “a chip off the old block” for a child who resembles a parent; “born with a silver spoon” for someone born into wealth; “black sheep” for a family member with a bad reputation; and “birds of a feather flock together” for people with similar behavior or interests. It also describes humorous ways to ask someone to move from your line of sight, plus “Bob’s your uncle” for an easy result and “one big happy family” as sincere or ironic.
Cultural note: Some expressions carry judgment: “black sheep” labels a person negatively, and “birds of a feather” can imply guilt by association. “Born with a silver spoon” can sound critical of privilege. “In a family way” is a dated euphemism for pregnancy; use direct, respectful wording instead of applying it to someone. “Bob’s your uncle” is especially common in British English and may be unfamiliar to some U.S. listeners. Treat the source’s origin story for it as a suggested explanation, not a proven etymology.
Keep exploringFamily idioms can sound playful, but some also judge a person’s character, money, or relationships. Tone matters.
Phrase guide · 7 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe similarities or a family member’s reputation—with care.
Meaning
A person, often a child, who is very similar to a parent.
Tone & use
Can refer to appearance, personality, or behavior. It is usually affectionate or admiring.
Example
“Maya is a chip off the old block; she loves solving puzzles just like her father.”
Meaning
A family member seen as different or as having a bad reputation.
Tone & use
Can be hurtful or judgmental. Describe the behavior without labeling someone when possible.
Example
“He felt like the black sheep because he chose a career very different from his relatives.”
Talk about inherited privilege or a task that turns out to be easy.
Meaning
Born into a wealthy or privileged family.
Tone & use
Often critical when it suggests someone has not had to work for their advantages.
Example
“The article notes that the CEO was born with a silver spoon in his mouth.”
Meaning
And that is all there is to it; the result is achieved simply.
Tone & use
Informal and especially associated with British English. The source gives a possible origin story involving family connections but presents it as an explanation, not certainty.
Example
“Add the vegetables, stir for a minute, and Bob’s your uncle—dinner is ready.”
Describe similar groups or politely ask someone to move from your view.
Meaning
People with similar interests or behavior tend to spend time together.
Tone & use
Can be neutral, but can also unfairly imply someone shares another person’s bad behavior.
Example
“They both love astronomy, so birds of a feather flock together at the observatory.”
Meaning
You are blocking someone’s view, so please move.
Tone & use
A teasing, indirect request. It may sound impatient if the relationship is not friendly.
Example
“Could you shift a little? You make a better door than a window.”
Meaning
A group that is close and supportive—or, ironically, a group that argues often.
Tone & use
The meaning depends on tone. The phrase can be sincere or sarcastic.
Example
“The volunteers tease one another but help whenever needed; they are one big happy family.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
1 of 3
