English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Flesh and blood
Meaning
The idiom "flesh and blood" refers to people who are related to us by blood, such as family members or close friends. It is often used in a figurative sense to describe someone who is like family to us, even if they are not actually related by blood.
Usage
- I always make sure to include my siblings, cousins, and other family members when celebrating holidays with them. They're more than just flesh and blood to me!
- The new employee quickly became part of the team. She felt like one of the family.
- My grandparents are still very much a part of my life. They may be old, but they're still my flesh and blood.
- I never forget that my parents sacrificed so much for me. They'll always be my rock and my foundation, no matter what happens in the future.
- My siblings and I have been through a lot together, but we've always had each other's backs. We may not always agree on everything, but at the end of the day, we're family.
Roots and History
The idiom "flesh and blood" has its roots in the Bible. In the New Testament, Jesus says, "Your Father in heaven is not like you people, who can be influenced by your own sinful desires. He himself does not feel this way. But as he gave you very flesh to eat and very blood to drink, so live by him" (John 16:32-33). Over time, the idiom has evolved to include more than just family members who are actually related by blood. It is now commonly used to describe anyone who we consider to be like family to us.
Synonyms in English
- Kindred spirits
- Family
- Clan
- Tribe
- Fellowship
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: Familiares o parientes cercanos (related family members or close friends)
- French: Parents, frères et sœurs (parents, siblings)
- German: Verwandte oder Freunde (relatives or friends)
- Italian: Famigliari o amici (family members or friends)
- Russian: Семья или друзья (family or friends)