10 English Idioms That Celebrate Friendship and Bonds

This article presents ten insightful English idioms related to friendship and relationships, complete with example sentences. These expressions will undoubtedly enhance your English language learning experience and deepen your understanding of social connections.

“It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages.” – Friedrich Nietzsche

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Friendship Idioms: 10 Phrases and Expressions About Friendship in English

Let’s get started with our list of the best English idioms about friendship:

1. Cross someone’s path – unexpectedly meet someone

Originally, this phrase suggested that a meeting involved confronting someone or causing them difficulties. However, in today’s context, it has evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings and does not always imply conflict.

For example, Ann swore she would scream if a spider crossed her path.

2. A friend in need is a friend indeed

A true friend is someone who stands by us during tough times, offering support and assistance when we face challenges. Unlike others who may vanish in moments of trouble, a genuine friend remains present, demonstrating their loyalty and care.

When Mary misplaced her keys and found herself without a place to stay for the night, her friend Emma came to the rescue by inviting her to stay at her home. This situation perfectly illustrates the saying, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.”

3. Make friends

This phrase shouldn’t be taken at face value, as you can’t literally “make” friends. Instead, it refers to the process of forming a friendship and cultivating genuine warmth and affection for another person.

For example, I hope John will soon make friends at school because he feels so lonely now.

4. Build bridges

This phrase refers to the process of enhancing relationships among individuals who have notable differences or who may not get along well, often highlighted by the preposition “between.”

For example, A local charity organisation is working to build bridges between different ethnic groups in the city.

5. Friends in high places

This phrase means that one has friends who have important or influential positions.

For example, Jim is very rude to other workers just because he has some friends in high places.

6. Be an item

This is said about people who are dating, who have a romantic relationship with each other.

For example, Kate and Richard began seeing each other and were an item for almost two years.

7. At odds with someone

This is said about people who have a conflict or disagreement. The word “odds” means controversy, inequality, or chances.

For example, The director and the artist were always at odds while making that short film.

8. Birds of a feather

A popular saying describes individuals who share commonalities, such as interests, hobbies, or life perspectives.

The full idiom is “Birds of a feather flock together,” highlighting the idea that individuals who share similar interests often gravitate toward each other and form strong friendships.

For example, My friend prefers the same clothes as me. Well, birds of a feather flock together.

9. Man’s best friend

This phrase highlights the beloved dog, our loyal four-legged companion. It’s important to note that this term is used in the context of a pet rather than as a scientific or botanical designation.

Did you know that the bond between humans and dogs dates back an astounding 100,000 years? This fascinating relationship highlights the deep-rooted connection we share with our furry companions, making them truly deserving of the title “man’s best friend.”

10. The honeymoon is over

This phrase is perfect for conveying that challenging times have begun in your life, especially after experiencing a period of ease or happiness.

I think it’s a good analogy. After all, it is often after the honeymoon that “real” married life begins.

I realized the honeymoon phase at my new job had come to an end when I was asked to stay late consistently.