Archived discussion

Posted by R. Berg on May 15, 2003

In Reply to: A friend in need is a friend indeed posted by Felicity on May 15, 2003

: Since it is translated from the Latin verse that means "a sure friend is known when in difficulty", why does the above phrase mean "friends become friendlier when they want something from you"?

: I always thought that it means - if during your time of need, s/he is a friend to you, then s/he is indeed a true friend.

Right, that's what the saying means, historically, but it's often construed as meaning that one in need of your help will exaggerate the friendship. The saying has been discussed here. Use link below to go to some of that discussion; you can get more by typing "friend indeed" in the Search the Archives box.

• Friend in need