Trade knows neither friends nor kindred.

Understand the thought

Meaning in plain English

Commercial dealings may need clear terms even between friends or relatives. The saying separates a transaction’s obligations from personal closeness, without suggesting that business removes the need for fairness, care or consideration.

What the words are saying

Trade is presented as indifferent to the personal ties of those taking part. A practical reading is that friendship or kinship alone does not settle a price, a deadline or what each person has agreed to provide. Leaving those details unstated can create expectations that the other person does not share. Clear agreement may protect a relationship rather than diminish it. However, the proverb can also sound like an excuse for treating people harshly in business; that implication should not be accepted. Choosing generosity is compatible with clarity, and commercial interests do not erase responsibility for how another person is treated.

Everyday example

A ceramicist agrees with a cousin on the price and collection date of a commissioned bowl before beginning, so neither has to guess what the favour involves.

When to use it

Use it when personal ties could leave the terms of a transaction unclear.

Agent-assisted editorial interpretation. This explains the words; it does not by itself verify their author or earliest origin.