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Through Thick and Thin

Through Thick and Thin.

English
idiom

In both good and bad times; under all circumstances.

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What it means...

To stay loyal and committed to someone through all of life’s challenges — good times and bad.

When someone stands by you through thick and thin, they’re there no matter what happens.

It’s often used to describe deep friendships, long marriages, or devoted teammates.

Use it when…

  • When someone stays loyal through both the best and worst moments
  • When describing a friendship or relationship that has survived many challenges
  • When pledging commitment to someone no matter what comes next

Don’t confuse with...

Wrong icon

"For Better or Worse"

Committed to staying together regardless of what happens, often from wedding vows

Wrong icon

"In Good Times and Bad"

A direct way of saying commitment covers all circumstances, less idiomatic

Correct icon

"Through Thick and Thin"

Stay loyal and committed through all circumstances

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Through Thick and Thin" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Management

The retiring CEO thanked his team for standing by the company through thick and thin over the past decade.

Relationships & Social Life

Romantic Partners

At their anniversary dinner, he told her she had been there through thick and thin and he couldn’t imagine life without her.

Media & Everyday Life

Interviews

The band members said they had stayed together through thick and thin for over twenty years.

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Through Thick and Thin" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Talking to Colleague

You

I just wanted to say — this year has been brutal, and you’ve been there through thick and thin.

Colleague

Same to you. That’s what teammates are for.

Relationships

Expressing Feelings

You

You’ve been with me through thick and thin. I don’t say it enough, but I’m really grateful.

Friend

Always. That’s never going to change.

Everyday Conversations

Storytelling

Friend

How long have you two been friends?

You

Over twenty years. We’ve been through thick and thin. She’s like family to me.

Last updated:
April 20, 2026

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