Through Thick and Thin – अच्छे और बुरे समय में साथ देना

The idiom “Through thick and thin” reflects the idea of staying loyal and supportive no matter what the situation is. It signifies that someone will stand by you during both good times and bad times, without hesitation or wavering. Whether it’s a happy or difficult time, this expression highlights unwavering loyalty and commitment.

✔ Meaning:

• “Through thick and thin” means to support or stay with someone in all circumstances, whether the situation is favorable or unfavorable.
• It emphasizes steadfast support regardless of the challenges or obstacles.

✔ Used When:

• When referring to someone who remains loyal and supportive through difficult situations.
• To express the idea of enduring commitment and loyalty in both joyful and challenging times.

✔ Implied Message:
This idiom suggests steadfastness and devotion, illustrating the type of person who will always stand by you, even when times are tough. It reflects the notion of never giving up on someone, no matter what difficulties may arise. It’s often used in relationships, friendships, or even in professional settings where someone has shown consistent support and dedication.

Hindi Equivalent:
“अच्छे और बुरे समय में साथ देना” (अर्थ: किसी का हर परिस्थिति में साथ देना, चाहे वो अच्छा हो या बुरा।)

🧠 Detailed Explanation
The idiom “Through thick and thin” focuses on the quality of unconditional loyalty. Whether the person is going through difficult circumstances or celebrating success, this idiom represents a relationship or commitment that isn’t swayed by challenges. It’s often used to describe true friendships or unshakable bonds where one person stays with the other through thick (hard times) and thin (easier times).

In relationships, “through thick and thin” shows that the connection isn’t just for the good times but is also about staying together during hardship. It’s about being supportive, not just when things are easy, but also when difficulties arise.

Example Sentences:
English: “She’s been with me through thick and thin, supporting me through all my challenges.”
Hindi: “वह मेरे साथ अच्छे और बुरे समय में साथ रही है, मेरी सभी मुश्किलों में मेरा समर्थन करती रही है।”

Key Takeaways:

• This idiom highlights unwavering support and commitment in both good and bad situations.
• It emphasizes loyalty and dedication, often seen in true friendships or strong relationships.
• It is a reminder that the most meaningful connections are those that remain intact through hardship.

✔ Origin of the Idiom:
The expression dates back to the 16th century and was likely coined to describe the varying conditions that people endure, from hardships (“thick”) to easier times (“thin”). Over time, it became associated with the idea of enduring loyalty and support, and it remains a key expression of devotion in both personal and professional contexts.

✔ Real-World Examples:

In Relationships:
English: “They’ve been married for over twenty years, and they’ve been through thick and thin together.”
Hindi: “वे बीस साल से ज्यादा समय से शादीशुदा हैं, और वे अच्छे और बुरे समय में साथ रहे हैं।”

In Friendships:
English: “No matter what happens, I know my best friend will be there through thick and thin.”
Hindi: “जो भी हो, मुझे पता है कि मेरी सबसे अच्छी दोस्त अच्छे और बुरे समय में साथ रहेगी।”

When to Use the Idiom:

• In relationships where loyalty and commitment have been shown.
• To describe the support that has been given, regardless of the circumstances.
• When referring to long-term bonds, whether in personal or professional life, where the person’s dedication has been unwavering.

Reflection Questions:

• Have you ever been in a situation where someone stood by you through thick and thin?
• How can staying loyal during tough times help strengthen relationships?

🔁 Similar Expressions

English Idiom	Hindi Meaning
Stick by someone	किसी का साथ देना
Stand by someone	किसी का समर्थन करना
Through the highs and lows	ऊँचाई और नीचाई में