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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Talk about senior leaders and recognize an old-fashioned compliment for a hardworking colleague.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThis episode explores informal expressions for bosses and employers, then looks at one phrase for a hardworking employee. The selected phrases can sound playful or old-fashioned, so neutral alternatives are useful in formal settings.
Cultural note: “Big cheese” and “top brass” are informal labels, not respectful forms of address. The source offers competing origin stories for “big cheese” and “top brass”; those explanations are possibilities, not settled etymology. “Work like a Trojan” is a historical expression, not a reference to modern software or a claim that anyone should overwork.
Keep exploringWould you call your manager “the big cheese” to their face? These work expressions are easier to understand than to use politely.
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Informal expressions for senior leaders or an important employer.
Meaning
The most senior people in an organization or group.
Tone & use
Informal and sometimes dated. It often refers to senior officials collectively; “senior leadership” is more neutral.
Example
“The top brass approved the new safety plan after staff shared their concerns.”
Meaning
An important or influential person, especially a leader.
Tone & use
Informal and often playful; it may sound disrespectful if used directly about a person who expects a formal title.
Example
“Ask the project lead rather than assuming the big cheese has seen the latest draft.”
A traditional phrase praising sustained, energetic work.
Recognition caution
Meaning
Work very hard and energetically.
Tone & use
An old-fashioned expression. Use “work hard” or describe the effort directly in professional writing; do not praise unhealthy overwork.
Example
“The volunteers worked like Trojans to prepare the community hall before the event.”
A compliment about effort should not imply that exhaustion or unpaid overtime is expected.
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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