As thick as thieves.
As thick as thieves.
Meaning in plain English
The phrase compares close companions with thieves acting together. It describes strong familiarity or a shared confidence.
Example
A reader recognises that two characters are close without taking the phrase as evidence of wrongdoing.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
Thieves supplies an idiomatic image rather than an accusation. A useful explanation recognises closeness without inferring criminal conduct, identical opinions or unquestioning loyalty. The supplied family comparison illustrates the strength of connection, not a requirement for friendship.
When to use it
Use it to explain emphatic closeness without a literal accusation.
Keep in mind
No criminal conduct, family status or obligation to agree is established.
Edsverb editorial interpretation · agent reviewed · 2026-10-05. This explains the saying; it does not establish its historical origin.
- Source
- Contributor-provided proverb reference
Supplied reference A; unit 687; PDF page 99
Reuse and collection notes ↗ - Attribution confidence
- traditional · supplied collection
Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
- Undated
No reliable date supplied by the collection. - Rights & edition
- Contributor-confirmed reuse permission
Translations and rights may differ elsewhere.
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