To be without a friend is to be poor, indeed.
To be without a friend is to be poor, indeed.
Meaning in plain English
The saying calls life without a friend poor. It presents connection as a kind of wealth beyond possessions.
Example
A reader considers what kind of connection they would welcome without ranking themselves by the number of friends they have.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The poverty image values companionship but can unfairly judge people who are isolated. A responsible reading recognises the importance friendship may have without treating absence as a loss of dignity or assuming everyone wants the same social life.
When to use it
Use it to discuss social value without judging isolation as personal failure.
Keep in mind
Having no friend does not establish low worth or a uniform need for companionship.
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 706; PDF page 101
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Preserved as printed; independently unverified. - Historical coordinate
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