PhrasesHub

Through thick and thin

    Definitions

      • remain loyal and supportive
        To stick by someone or something regardless of the challenges or difficulties they may face, demonstrating unwavering support and loyalty

      • endure difficult or trying circumstances
        To persist through hardships or obstacles, showing resilience and determination to overcome any challenges that may arise

    Examples of Through thick and thin

    • John and Sarah have been married for over 20 years, and through thick and thin, they have remained deeply in love.

      This idiom is used to describe a situation where someone has remained loyal or committed to something, even during difficult or challenging times. The phrase "through thick and thin" refers to both the good times and the bad times, implying that the person's commitment or loyalty has not wavered. In this example, John and Sarah's love for each other has endured through both the easy and the difficult times of their marriage.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "through thick and thin" is often used to describe the strong and unwavering loyalty and perseverance of a person or a group. It conveys the idea of standing by someone or something through all circumstances, no matter how tough or challenging they may be. This phrase can be used in both a positive and negative context, highlighting the importance of remaining steadfast and committed in difficult situations.

    Origin of "Through thick and thin"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to medieval times, where the phrase "thick and thin" was used to describe the two types of weather conditions that were most common at the time - thick fog and thin mist. Over time, this phrase evolved to take on a more figurative meaning, referring to the different types of challenges and obstacles that one may face in life.

    The earliest recorded use of the idiom "through thick and thin" was in the 14th century, in Geoffrey Chaucer's famous work "The Canterbury Tales." In one of the tales, Chaucer writes, "I'll go with thee through thick and thin," showing the enduring loyalty and support of the character towards his friend.

    Today, this idiom is commonly used in everyday language to express the idea of standing by someone or something through all circumstances. It has become a popular phrase to describe the unwavering commitment and resilience of individuals and groups, making it a timeless idiom that continues to be used in modern times.