The idiom “as thick as thieves” is used to describe people who share a very close bond or are extremely friendly and united. It often implies a deep connection or a strong sense of loyalty between individuals or groups.
Meaning of “as thick as thieves”
Very close-knit
Refers to people who have a strong relationship and are often seen together.
Example:
“Mary and Susan have been best friends since childhood; they’re as thick as thieves.”
Allied or united
Implies a relationship where individuals work closely together, often for a common goal.
Example:
“The two siblings were as thick as thieves when it came to hiding their pranks from their parents.”
Origin of “as thick as thieves”
The idiom originates from the 18th century, when the word “thick” was a colloquial term meaning close or intimate. The “thieves” part may have been added because thieves were thought to have strong bonds of trust and loyalty with their partners in crime, relying on one another to avoid getting caught. Over time, the phrase lost its criminal connotation and became more general.
Usage of “as thick as thieves”
Close Friendships:
Used to describe people with a strong, inseparable friendship.
“Those two have been as thick as thieves ever since they met at university.”
Alliances:
Can refer to groups or individuals working together in harmony.
“The companies became as thick as thieves during their joint venture.”
Examples of usage
Friendships:
“Tom and Jerry are always together—they’re as thick as thieves.”
“My cousins are as thick as thieves and always team up against me during board games.”
Alliances:
“The rival teams became as thick as thieves once they realized they had a common enemy.”
“The two departments worked as thick as thieves to ensure the project’s success.”
Family Bonds:
“The sisters were as thick as thieves, sharing all their secrets and plans.”
“Despite the family feud, the younger generation remained as thick as thieves.”
Similar expressions
“Joined at the hip”: Describes people who are always together.
Example:
“Since they started dating, they’ve been joined at the hip.”
“Hand in glove”: Indicates a close working relationship.
Example:
“The detective and his assistant worked hand in glove to solve the case.”
“Two peas in a pod”: Refers to people who are very alike or inseparable.
Example:
“Those twins are two peas in a pod.”
The idiom “as thick as thieves” captures the essence of strong bonds, whether in friendship, family, or alliances. It highlights loyalty, trust, and mutual understanding, making it a timeless way to describe close relationships.
