English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
As thick as thieves
Meaning
The idiom "as thick as thieves" means that two people are very close friends or have a strong bond, often to the point where they feel like they can keep secrets from each other without fear of being betrayed.
Usage
- Sarah and Emily were as thick as thieves since they started high school together.
- Despite their age difference, John and Michael were as thick as thieves, always supporting each other through their struggles.
- When Mary was going through a difficult time, her best friend Rachel was there for her, as thick as thieves.
- The siblings had been as thick as thieves since they were young, always sticking together no matter what.
- After a falling out, the two friends realized that their bond was still as strong as ever and decided to reconcile, becoming as thick as thieves once again.
Roots and History
The idiom "as thick as thieves" dates back to at least the 16th century, with its earliest known use being in a collection of proverbs in 1580. The phrase likely originated from the idea that two people who are very close friends may be able to work together like thieves, stealing secrets or information without detection. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has evolved to include any strong bond between two people, regardless of their actions or behavior.
Synonyms in English
- As close as can be
- Inseparable
- Like oil and water
- Poles apart
- Opposites attract
Synonyms in other languages
- 熱愛的 (jǐndài de) - Chinese translation: love-struck
- 強調貴重度 (kuòngzhèng bù) - Chinese translation: emphasize the importance
- 坚持不減少 (jiānchí bù xuǎozhē) - Chinese translation: persist and don't reduce
- 熱愛的 (jǐndài de) - Italian translation: love-struck
- 強調貴重度 (kuòngzhèng bù) - Spanish translation: emphasize the importance