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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Recognize animal metaphors for opening a complicated issue, sneaking into a situation, and misleading claims.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe story uses worms and snakes for complicated issues, deceptive behavior, and misleading treatments. “Early bird gets the worm” and “snakebit” are excluded because prior lessons cover them. The article’s explanation of the historical phrase “snake oil” is presented as an attributed theory, not settled history.
Cultural note: Calling someone a worm or snake is insulting. Use these phrases to discuss a specific action or unsupported claim, not to label someone’s character or group. The source’s account of snake-oil history is a theory about some sellers, not a basis for stereotyping Asian Americans.
Keep exploringThese animal images can describe a messy issue or a misleading pitch—but the labels can bite.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe opening a problem with many connected parts.
Meaning
A difficult issue with many connected problems.
Tone & use
Often used in “open a can of worms,” meaning to bring up or reveal a complicated subject.
Example
“Changing the old software might open a can of worms, so the team first made a backup.”
Recognize language that implies someone is using tricks.
Recognition caution
Meaning
Get into a position or situation gradually by using tricks or dishonest behavior.
Tone & use
Informal and strongly negative. Use only when deception is supported by the facts.
Example
“The fake account wormed its way into the private group by pretending to be a former member.”
Accuses someone of using deception; do not use it for ordinary persistence.
Talk about untrustworthy behavior or a product that does not work.
Recognition caution
Meaning
A product or method promoted as helpful but ineffective or fraudulent.
Tone & use
Informal and critical. It is often used figuratively for unsupported quick fixes, not just physical products.
Example
“The ad promised instant language fluency, but the course looked like snake oil.”
Avoid making claims about a person or group without evidence; criticize the specific unsupported offer.
Recognition caution
Meaning
A person who sells or promotes something with false promises.
Tone & use
A strong, often insulting label. Prefer “the claim lacks evidence” when discussing a specific pitch.
Example
“Rather than call the presenter a snake-oil salesman, the reviewer listed the claims that had no supporting data.”
Can sound like a personal attack; focus on the claim and its evidence.
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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