VOA · Words and Their Stories
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Words and Their Stories is VOA's classic program about American English expressions and idioms — where phrases like 'break the ice' come from and how to use them. Native-like idioms in slow, clear speech: a rare combination for learners.
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01And now, words and their stories from VOA Learning English.
02One of the best things about traveling to a new country is learning about new traditions and customs.
03They can be very different from our own.
04When visiting a foreign country, it is smart to follow the local social rules and customs of the people who live there.
05This can make your stay easier and more enjoyable.
06Today, we talk about fitting in with the way local people do things.
07We talk about an expression that goes all the way back to ancient Rome.
08When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
09This expression means that when we visit a place, we should follow the customs and norms of that place.
10This expression shows an attitude or mindset.
11You are willing to change your way of doing things to fit in with those around you.
12The place does not have to be a new country.
13It can simply be a new situation or environment.
14For example, let's say you usually speak very loudly.
15But when visiting an art museum or library, you whisper in a low voice.
16You follow the rules of that place.
17When in Rome, English speakers often shorten this expression to This expression has another meaning.
18When you are in an unfamiliar situation, you should follow the lead of those who know the rules.
19These people know how to behave with others.
20They know how to play the game.
21They know how to work within the system.
22They don't do things differently.
23They blend in.
24But what does Rome have to do with following other people's customs?
25Several websites describe how the expression may have begun.
26And if they are correct, this expression is very old.
27Here is how the story goes.
28During the time of the Roman Empire, more than 1,500 years ago, A Christian leader, St.
29Augustine, moved from Rome to Milan.
30Once in the new city, he found some parts of religious life to be different.
31For example, in Rome, he fasted, or did not eat, on Saturday.
32But in Milan, people did not fast on Saturday.
33Another church leader, St.
34Ambrose, gave him some advice.
35St.
36Ambrose said that when he goes to Rome, he fasts on Saturdays.
37But when he is in Milan, he does not.
38Problem solved.
39This good advice, or proverb, has survived over the years.
40Some word experts say it first appeared in English around 500 years ago.
41But we still use it to this day, either to give advice or to describe a situation where we have to change our behavior to fit in.
42Let's hear another example.
43How was your trip to see your brother's family?
44It was really fun.
45Different, but fun.
46How was it different?
47Well, they live in the country and love to hunt and fish.
48So that's what I did all week.
49It was great.
50I'm so surprised.
51I didn't think you were the outdoorsy type.
52I'm not.
53But when in Rome...
54With that attitude, it's no wonder you had a fun trip.
55And that's all the time we have for this Words and Their Stories.
56Until next time, I'm Ana Mateo.
57I'm a fan of the way.
58I'm a fan of the way.
59I'm a fan of the way.
60I'm a fan of the way.
61I'm a fan of the way.
62I'm a fan of the way.
63I'm a fan of the way.
64I'm a fan of the way.
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