VOA · Words and Their Stories
Advanced · C1learner speed4:012025-02-20public domain
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.
02Technology is always progressing.
03Today, many modern devices can be controlled by touch or voice.
04This has led to some traditional electronic controls, such as dials and switches, being replaced with new technologies.
05Digital displays have also become increasingly common.
06For example, digital number readouts have long replaced the hands on many clocks.
07Many other devices also now operate purely with digital tools instead of mechanical systems.
08But some expressions and idioms used by English speakers still describe older technologies.
09First, let's talk about dials.
10These controls are used for changing settings on a piece of equipment, like a radio or old television.
11We use the dial to tune in to a specific channel.
12That's where the expressions dialed in and tuned in come from.
13If we are dialed in or tuned in to a radio or television program, we can hear it clearly.
14There is no noise or static.
15The same can be said when using these terms in personal conversations.
16For example, if you are dialed in to a project or problem, you know exactly what needs to be done.
17You are thinking clearly about it and remain very focused.
18And when you are tuned in, you understand clearly what is going on around you.
19Don't touch that dial.
20And stay tuned are two ways to tell someone to keep watching or listening to a program.
21Now let's talk about switches.
22These are built to either be off or on.
23There are no in-between settings, like with a dial.
24So when we flip the switch, we make something happen quickly and easily.
25It can also mean that we suddenly change something.
26Let's listen to an example.
27The restaurant's change to all organic food happened slowly over time.
28It wasn't a matter of flipping a switch.
29Now for our last expression.
30To move the needle.
31Needles on measuring devices, like a scale, move to show a desired level has been reached.
32So when something moves the needle, it causes a noticeable change in something.
33Usually for the good.
34And that's all the time we have for this Words and Their Stories.
35Don't forget to tune in again for another story about American English expressions.
36Until next time, I'm Ana Mateo.
37I'm Ana Mateo.
// transcribed with Whisper AI — reading it is easy; catching it by ear is the skill
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