VOA · Words and Their Stories
Advanced · C1learner speed4:222024-07-11public 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.
02On this program, we explore words and expressions in the English language.
03We hope it gives you something to think about.
04In other words, we hope this show gives you some food for thought.
05Food for thought is a set noun phrase.
06It describes something that should be thought about and considered carefully.
07The food can come from many different sources.
08A news story, an idea, an offer, an opinion, or advice can all give us food for thought, just to name a few.
09When you give someone food for thought, you make them consider carefully or think seriously about something.
10Food for thought can also make us see things in a new way.
11It can make us look at something with new eyes.
12Or we can say it opens our eyes.
13Or is eye-opening.
14Now, let's hear two friends use some of these expressions.
15I read a story the other day about beekeeping.
16It was eye-opening.
17Did you know that some people use it as a way to reduce stress?
18Really?
19I know it helps the environment.
20But I did not know that it also helps the beekeeper.
21The story really opened my eyes to the possibility of beekeeping.
22So, I've decided to start this summer.
23Do you want to help?
24No, thanks.
25I'm afraid of bee stings.
26But you've given me food for thought.
27Working to help the environment and reduce stress sounds like an interesting idea.
28Maybe I can find another way.
29I'm sure you can.
30Food for thought is meant to be processed or digested just like, well, food.
31In fact, we sometimes use the word digest when talking about thoughts and ideas.
32Here's an example.
33The writer's conference gave her much food for thought.
34It took her weeks to digest everything she learned.
35Food for thought can be used in formal and informal situations.
36There is a food-related phrasal verb that is similar to food for thought.
37Although it is much more informal.
38To chew on something.
39Like eating food, when you chew on something, you think about it thoroughly.
40Here's an example.
41When my friend was offered a job, he chewed on the offer for some time.
42In the end, he decided that the job was not for him and did not accept it.
43If you want to sound more formal, you can use verbs like reflect or contemplate.
44Food for thought often leads to reflection and contemplation.
45And that brings us to the end of this Words and Their Stories.
46Recently, what has given you food for thought?
47Let us know in the comments section.
48Or send us an email at learningenglish at voanews.com.
49Until next time, I'm Ana Mateo.
50Thank you.
// transcribed with Whisper AI — reading it is easy; catching it by ear is the skill
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