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Processed with VS1Use wave expressions for trends, opportunity, causing disruption, and signaling someone.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptVOA uses waves as images for taking advantage of a popular trend, creating disruption, or directing someone’s movement. The story distinguishes “ride the wave” and “catch the wave” from “make waves” and “rock the boat,” and covers several phrasal verbs with “wave.”
Cultural note: “Make waves” and “rock the boat” often frame disruption negatively, especially at work, though challenging a routine can sometimes be useful. In this lesson, “wave someone on/off/down” is about a visible signal, not about following a trend.
Keep exploringWaves can carry you with a trend, or they can unsettle a boat. Listen for how the same image describes opportunity, disruption, and simple hand signals.
Phrase guide · 6 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe taking advantage of a popular moment or favorable chance.
Meaning
Benefit from a strong trend, popularity, or shared enthusiasm.
Tone & use
Often used for social trends, success, or momentum. It can be positive or suggest that someone is relying on popularity.
Example
“The small bakery rode the wave of interest in sourdough and added a weekend class.”
Meaning
Take advantage of an opportunity at a favorable time.
Tone & use
Figurative and often positive; it emphasizes being ready when a chance appears.
Example
“The musicians caught the wave of interest in local live shows and booked a larger venue.”
Talk about drawing attention or disturbing an established routine.
Meaning
Attract attention or cause disruption by doing something noticeable.
Tone & use
Often negative when it means creating trouble, but can be positive when someone brings important change.
Example
“The new director made waves by replacing the confusing forms with a simpler process.”
Meaning
Cause trouble or disturb a stable situation.
Tone & use
Often used when people want to avoid disruption. It can also criticize resistance to necessary change.
Example
“She raised the safety concern even though she worried it might rock the boat.”
Use phrasal verbs for signaling someone to move, stop, or leave.
Meaning
Signal someone or a vehicle to stop by waving your hand.
Tone & use
A literal phrasal verb. Common with taxis, buses, or people across a distance.
Example
“We waved down a taxi after the concert.”
Meaning
Signal that someone may leave, or dismiss an offer or concern with a hand gesture.
Tone & use
Meaning depends on context. It can be a friendly goodbye or a sign that help is not wanted.
Example
“I offered to carry the box, but he waved me off and picked it up himself.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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