Learn
Watch & LearnLearning Paths
Daily EnglishSocial EnglishProfessional EnglishVOA English
Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Understand idioms for closeness and support without assuming family ties always come first.
VOA source audio
Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe familiar proverb “blood is thicker than water” is commonly used to say family bonds are especially strong. The episode also introduces “thick as thieves,” “through thick and thin,” and “from cradle to grave.” The lesson focuses on how people use these expressions today and separates that usage from claims about a proverb’s original wording.
Cultural note: The VOA story presents “the blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb” as the original wording. Treat that as an origin claim, not established historical fact; the lesson does not repeat it as a proven Bible quotation. Also, family loyalty is a social value, not a universal rule that should override safety, consent, or chosen relationships.
Keep exploringEnglish idioms talk about family, trust, and loyalty—but an idiom cannot decide whose relationship matters most.
Phrase guide · 5 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Understand the familiar proverb’s current common meaning.
Meaning
A proverb commonly used to say family relationships are stronger than other relationships.
Tone & use
Often used to argue for family loyalty. It reflects a viewpoint, not a rule that applies to every family or person.
Example
“He believed blood was thicker than water, while his sister said years of care mattered more than biology.”
Describe closeness and dependable support.
Meaning
Close friends with someone.
Tone & use
Informal and sometimes dated; “close friends” is clearer in most situations.
Example
“Mina and Jo have been thick since they worked on the same community project.”
Meaning
Very close and trusting, often sharing private knowledge.
Tone & use
Informal and playful; its literal reference to thieves is figurative, not an accusation.
Example
“The cousins were thick as thieves and planned the surprise party together.”
Meaning
During both good and difficult times.
Tone & use
Common for relationships or support; it does not mean someone must accept harmful behavior.
Example
“Their friends supported them through thick and thin, while encouraging them to get help when they needed it.”
Recognize dramatic phrases that describe a person’s life span.
Meaning
Throughout a person’s whole life, from birth until death.
Tone & use
Dramatic and sometimes used in policy discussions about services or support.
Example
“The report traced how public programs affect people from cradle to grave.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
1 of 3