thick as thieves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thick as thieves" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is an idiom which means two or more people are very close, almost like family. Example: "The two sisters had always been thick as thieves."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Relationships

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Thick as Thieves?

Harvard University

We were thick as thieves.

The New York Times - Magazine

Apparently, the pair are thick as thieves.

Independent

To be thick as thieves, or bosom buddies.

The Guardian - Books

Turns out this lot are already thick as thieves.

The Guardian - Music

Collusion or not, President Trump and the Russians are thick as thieves.

The Washington Post

Prince Harry said Meghan and his late mother, Princess Diana, would have been "thick as thieves".

The Guardian

"We're thick as thieves and we're all feeling for the man," he added.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Ah, yes: In Soderbergh's "Ocean's" heist films — most notably when Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and the rest of George Clooney's thick-as-thieves gang wordlessly celebrate in front of the aquatic reverie of the Bellagio hotel's balletic fountain.

The Washington Post

Their programme aims to be part musical education, part window into the lives of two livewires whose combined CV includes booking acts for Shoreditch's 333 club, DJing at Kate Moss's Topshop launch and inspiring Razorlight's "Golden Touch" – best mates whose thick-as-thieves eminence was sealed last spring when they "married" in Vegas.

Independent

The fabric, he said, was 'thick as thieves' - the censorious superego muscles in to reprove his fantasy and accuse him of entertaining criminal thoughts.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thick as thieves" to vividly illustrate an exceptionally close and trusting relationship, emphasizing the depth of the bond between individuals. For instance, "The siblings were thick as thieves, sharing secrets and always supporting each other".

Common error

Avoid using "thick as thieves" when describing relationships built on superficiality or convenience. The phrase implies a deep-seated, unwavering loyalty and bond, not just a casual acquaintance.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic expression "thick as thieves" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe the intensity and closeness of a relationship. Ludwig AI indicates its proper usage, validated by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Books

25%

Informal & Relationships

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "thick as thieves" vividly describes an exceptionally close and loyal relationship between two or more people. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and widely used. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media, books, and informal conversation, signaling a neutral to informal register. While generally appropriate, it's essential to consider the context, avoiding its use in highly formal or scientific settings. Alternatives such as ""inseparable"" or ""bosom buddies"" can offer nuanced ways to express similar closeness, or also "close-knit" or "joined at the hip"

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

very close friends

A straightforward description of a strong friendship.

inseparable

Emphasizes the inability of individuals to be apart, highlighting their constant companionship.

close companions

Emphasizes the shared experiences and companionship between individuals.

joined at the hip

Emphasizes the constant proximity and close association between individuals.

intimate friends

Focuses on the deep emotional connection and trust between individuals.

close-knit

Focuses on the tight bond and strong connection between individuals.

partners in crime

Suggests a close bond, often implying shared mischief or adventures.

bosom buddies

An informal term indicating a very close and affectionate friendship.

like two peas in a pod

Highlights the similarities and close association between individuals.

birds of a feather

Highlights shared interests and values that bring people together.

FAQs

How can I use "thick as thieves" in a sentence?

You can use "thick as thieves" to describe a very close and loyal relationship. For example: "Despite their different personalities, they were "thick as thieves"."

What's a similar expression to "thick as thieves"?

Similar expressions include "inseparable", "bosom buddies", or "joined at the hip", all indicating a very close relationship.

Is "thick as thieves" appropriate for formal writing?

While "thick as thieves" is widely understood, it's generally more suitable for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "very close friends" or "deeply connected".

Can "thick as thieves" be used negatively?

Yes, it can, particularly when implying that the individuals are close because they share dishonest or questionable activities. The context is key to understanding the intended meaning.