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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Learn how English speakers describe a painfully dull experience—and someone who never wastes time.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode pairs a vivid comparison for a tedious experience with an idiom about staying active and acting promptly. The contrast makes the two expressions easy to remember: one describes time dragging, while the other praises someone who keeps moving.
Cultural note: “Like watching grass grow” is playful hyperbole, not a literal claim that grass never changes. “Don’t let the grass grow under your feet” is a figurative push to get moving; depending on delivery, it can sound motivating or impatient.
Keep exploringOne grass image means “this is painfully dull”; another means “get moving.” Explore how the wording flips the feeling.
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
A colorful way to say an experience feels slow and uninteresting.
Meaning
Extremely boring because little seems to happen.
Tone & use
Informal, humorous exaggeration. Use it for a dull activity or event, not as a neutral description.
Example
“The meeting about printer settings felt like watching grass grow.”
Expressions for someone who keeps moving instead of delaying.
Meaning
To stay busy and act without unnecessary delay.
Tone & use
Informal. Often approving, but as a command it can sound impatient or pushy.
Example
“When Maya saw the scholarship opening, she didn’t let the grass grow under her feet—she applied that night.”
Meaning
Busy and moving from one activity or place to another.
Tone & use
Casual and common in everyday speech. It describes an active schedule rather than a personality by itself.
Example
“With two classes and a part-time job, Leo is on the go all week.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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