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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Compare expressions for starting a process, making progress, and using influence in business or politics.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe episode uses wheels to picture influence, ideas, starting a process, and effort that is not moving forward. It also explains “wheel and deal,” a critical expression for making business or political deals, sometimes through questionable tactics.
Cultural note: “Wheel and deal” can imply aggressive or dishonest maneuvering, so it is a judgment rather than a neutral description. “Spin your wheels” criticizes an ineffective process, not necessarily the people doing the work. The source includes “the squeaky wheel gets the grease”; the lesson focuses on its communication trade-off, not the poem quoted in the article.
Keep exploringA wheel can suggest an idea starting to turn—or effort going nowhere. The context tells you which.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a thought forming or a process starting.
Meaning
Someone is thinking through an idea or beginning to understand how something might work.
Tone & use
Informal and often used when a person is quietly considering a problem. It does not guarantee that they have reached an answer.
Example
“Give Maya a moment with the schedule; I can see the wheels turning as she works out a better order.”
Meaning
Begin a process that is expected to continue or lead to further action.
Tone & use
Often used for plans, projects, or changes. It describes starting the process, not guaranteeing its success.
Example
“Once the board approved the budget, the director set the wheels in motion for the renovation.”
Distinguish persistent advocacy from activity that is not advancing.
Meaning
Use time or effort without making meaningful progress.
Tone & use
Informal and critical of the situation or approach. Suggest a next step rather than blaming a person when the cause is unclear.
Example
“We were spinning our wheels until the supplier explained which part was delayed.”
Meaning
A problem or request that is voiced persistently is more likely to receive attention.
Tone & use
Can encourage people to raise a real issue, but may also reward the loudest voice over the most urgent need. Pair it with fair ways to hear everyone.
Example
“The team added a shared request board so quiet contributors would not be overlooked just because the squeaky wheel gets the grease.”
Recognize language that can carry a critical judgment about deal-making.
Meaning
Make business or political deals, often with an implication of clever, forceful, or questionable maneuvering.
Tone & use
Informal and frequently critical. Use a neutral phrase such as “negotiate” when you do not mean to suggest anything improper.
Example
“The two organizations negotiated openly instead of wheeling and dealing behind closed doors.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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