English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Blood is thicker than water
Meaning
"Blood is thicker than water" is an idiom that means family ties or relationships are stronger than friendships. It suggests that family members will always be there for each other, regardless of their differences, while friends may drift away over time. This phrase emphasizes the importance of familial bonds and their enduring power.
Usage
- Despite their disagreements, the siblings never cut off their blood ties.
- My aunt is very protective of her niece, but she understands that blood is thicker than water when it comes to family matters.
- The celebrity's fans were outraged when they learned that he had abandoned his family, but many argued that blood is thicker than water, and he should always prioritize his family's needs.
- My cousin and I have a deep bond that goes beyond friendship; it's because blood is thicker than water in our family.
- Even though the ex-couple has been bitter enemies for years, their children know that blood is thicker than water, and they still maintain a relationship with their mother. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. It can be used to highlight the strength of familial bonds or to criticize someone who prioritizes family over friendship.
Roots and History
The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it has been in use since at least the 17th century. One theory suggests that it comes from a proverb that dates back to 1350, which states, "Blood is thicker than ink." This phrase was used to emphasize the importance of familial ties and the fact that they are more powerful than written agreements or contracts. Over time, the meaning of this idiom has evolved slightly to include relationships beyond just family. Today, it's commonly used to highlight any strong bond or connection between people, regardless of their relationship status.
Synonyms in English
- Family is always first.
- Loyalty knows no bounds.
- Blood and bone are thicker than water and vinegar.
- Kinship is more powerful than friendship.
- We're all in this together.
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: "La sangre es más gruesa que el agua." - This idiom emphasizes the importance of familial bonds and their enduring power, just like its English counterpart.
- French: "Le sang est plus dense que l'eau." - This phrase is similar in meaning to the Spanish version, highlighting the strength of family ties.
- German: "Blut ist dicker als Wasser." - This idiom translates to "Blood is thicker than water," and it emphasizes the importance of familial bonds, just like its English equivalent.
- Italian: "La sangue è più spessa dell'acqua." - This phrase is another variation of the theme, highlighting the enduring power of family ties.
- Dutch: "De bloed is dikker dan de water." - This idiom emphasizes the importance of familial bonds and their enduring power, similar to its English and other language counterparts.