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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Explore changing digital use of “friend” and phrases for support through difficult times.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe story traces how “friend” became a verb on social platforms and contrasts digital connections with phrases for support and closeness. Most of the article’s animal and food comparisons already appear in other lessons, so this page focuses on the less-repeated language and on how context changes the word.
Cultural note: “Friend” as a verb is strongly associated with social media and may sound platform-specific or dated depending on the service. “A friend in need is a friend indeed” is a proverb; it should not be used to demand help from someone who cannot provide it.
Keep exploringThe same word can describe clicking a button online or showing up for someone when life gets difficult.
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Understand platform-specific uses of “friend” as a verb.
Meaning
Add someone to or remove them from a social-media connection list.
Tone & use
A digital-platform verb. In other contexts, “befriend” means to become friendly with someone.
Example
“She unfriended the inactive account after checking that it did not belong to a current contact.”
Meaning
Become friendly with someone or offer them companionship.
Tone & use
More general than the social-media verb “friend.” It can describe a gradual real-world relationship.
Example
“A neighbor befriended the new family and showed them where to find the closest library.”
Talk about friendship that lasts through changing circumstances.
Recognition caution
Meaning
A true friend shows care by helping when times are difficult.
Tone & use
A traditional proverb. Use it to recognize support, not to pressure someone into helping.
Example
“When the bus broke down, her friend stayed with her until a safe ride arrived—a friend in need is a friend indeed.”
Do not use the proverb to make someone feel guilty for setting limits.
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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