useful friend

USAGE SUMMARY

"useful friend" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you are referring to a friend who has been helpful to you in some way. For example, "John has been a very useful friend to me over the years, always lending a hand when I need it most."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

It's led us to consider that dread word 'diversity' and its more useful friend 'inclusion'inclusion

The Guardian

Kennedy got a whole new article, and managed to make a useful friend of the editor.

The New York Times - Books

Which is a shame, because he'd be a useful friend to have.

The Guardian

She'd rather have a useful friend than a pretty one, anyway.

The New Yorker

All he has in mind is that Ellen would be a useful friend to have.

The New Yorker

He apparently didn't waste a lot of time reading his contemporaries' novels, including those of his useful friend Gide or his other fervent literary fan Henry Miller.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Unlike Pompey, he used his wealth to dispense patronage and buy useful friends.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He has indeed learned to be "flexible"—and to make useful friends.

The Economist

That is why some ambitious young writers flock to events like the Jaipur festival — to make useful friends, to impress, to corner foreign publishers and literary agents.

The New York Times

The Gulf monarchies include some of the world's most authoritarian regimes but so long as they can be regarded as "useful" friends, western governments let them off lightly.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Scott boxes, however, remain, despite neglect and abuse, not just a throwback to a different age when public service was meant to be dignified, but useful friends when new technology, however whizzy and appealing, gives up the winking, bleeping digital ghost.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "useful friend", specify the areas where their help is most valuable. This adds clarity and depth to your appreciation.

Common error

Avoid implying that the friendship is solely based on utility. A genuine friendship involves mutual support and affection, not just practical assistance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "useful friend" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "useful" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "friend". Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English for referring to a helpful friend.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "useful friend" is grammatically sound and understandable, denoting a friend who provides practical help and support. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While the phrase is not overly common, occurring in neutral contexts like News & Media, its usage is valid. When using this phrase, be mindful of the potential to overemphasize utility over genuine affection. Alternatives like "valuable friend" or "helpful companion" can offer a more nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

valuable friend

Replaces "useful" with "valuable", focusing on the overall worth of the friendship.

helpful companion

Substitutes "friend" with "companion" and "useful" with "helpful", highlighting assistance and camaraderie.

supportive ally

Emphasizes the backing and loyalty a friend provides, particularly in challenging situations.

instrumental acquaintance

Uses "instrumental" to suggest a crucial role and "acquaintance" for a less intimate connection.

beneficial associate

Highlights the advantages gained from the relationship, using a more formal term like "associate".

serviceable colleague

Implies a working relationship where the friend provides practical assistance.

advantageous connection

Focuses on the opportunities and benefits derived from knowing someone.

reliable confidant

Emphasizes the trustworthiness and dependability of a friend.

expedient contact

Highlights the convenience and practicality of having this person in your network.

resourceful comrade

Focuses on the friend's ability to provide solutions and support.

FAQs

What does it mean to call someone a "useful friend"?

Calling someone a "useful friend" implies that they provide valuable help, support, or resources in various situations. However, it's crucial to ensure that the term doesn't diminish the emotional connection inherent in a genuine friendship.

Are there alternative ways to describe a friend who is helpful?

Yes, you can use terms like "valuable friend", "helpful companion", or "supportive ally" to convey the same idea with slightly different nuances.

Is it appropriate to describe a friend as "useful" in professional settings?

While "useful" is generally acceptable, consider using more formal terms like "beneficial associate" or "instrumental acquaintance" in professional contexts to maintain a professional tone.

How can I use "useful friend" in a sentence?

You might say, "John has been a very "useful friend" to me, always offering practical advice and assistance when I need it." or "Having a "useful friend" in the industry has opened doors to new opportunities."