θruː θɪk ənd θɪn
Relationships
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- Through thick forests and thin underbrush
What does "through thick and thin" mean?
- Through good times and bad
- Remaining loyal despite difficulties
Examples
- They've been together through thick and thin.
- I'll support you through thick and thin.
- Friends stick together through thick and thin.
Origin
From medieval hunting—pursuing game through thick forests and thin clearings. Represents persistence through all conditions.
How to use it
Strong expression of loyalty. Often used in romantic and friendship contexts.
Similar expressions
come what may
rain or shine
for better or worse
Opposites
fair-weather friend
only when convenient
Related idioms
- break the ice
To initiate conversation in an awkward social situation
- see eye to eye
To agree with someone completely
- head over heels
Completely and deeply in love
- pull someone's leg
To tease or joke with someone
- cut someone some slack
To be less strict or demanding with someone
- tie the knot
To get married
Use it in a practice answer
Try "through thick and thin" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.