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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Use a familiar expression to talk warmly about good fortune and the things you appreciate.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe story explains “thank your lucky stars” as a way to express gratitude for something good, including help, health, or a fortunate outcome. “Count your lucky stars” has the same meaning.
Cultural note: The phrase is usually light and conversational; it does not require a literal belief in astrology or stars. It can also point out that someone narrowly avoided a bad outcome.
Keep exploringThink of a small moment when things worked out well. Practise saying what you are grateful for without making it sound like you expect good luck every time.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Name a helpful person, opportunity, or good part of life.
Meaning
Feel grateful or relieved about a fortunate situation.
Tone & use
Often used with “should” to say someone has reason to feel grateful. The stars are figurative in everyday use.
Example
“We should thank our lucky stars the rain stopped before the outdoor ceremony.”
Meaning
Feel or express gratitude for someone or something.
Tone & use
A direct, neutral alternative that works in both conversation and writing.
Example
“I’m thankful for the neighbor who checked on my cat while I was away.”
Show relief that a situation could have turned out worse.
Meaning
Recognize how fortunate you are, especially after avoiding trouble.
Tone & use
A common variation of “thank your lucky stars”; it can sound gently cautionary.
Example
“You should count your lucky stars that nobody was hurt in the minor parking-lot accident.”
Talk about luck in a casual, non-literal way.
Meaning
Because of a lucky or favorable event.
Tone & use
More formal than “luckily”; useful in careful speech and writing.
Example
“By good fortune, the museum had one ticket left for the afternoon tour.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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