friends in high places: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘friends in high places’ mean?
The idiom "friends in high places" means to have influential or powerful connections, typically in positions of authority or privilege. It suggests that having such connections can help one achieve favorable outcomes or access certain advantages.
Idiom Explorer
"Large and in charge" is an idiom that means someone is in a position of power or authority, and they are confident and capable of handling their responsibilities.
When someone says they "know someone," it means they are acquainted or familiar with that person. It implies a level of personal connection or understanding between the two individuals.
The idiom "keys to the kingdom" means having access to the most important or valuable things, often referring to having complete control or authority over a situation, organization, or valuable information.
The idiom "inner circle" refers to a small, exclusive group of people who are closely connected and influential within a larger organization or social circle.
The idiom "high ground" refers to a position of advantage or superiority in a conflict or competition, both literally and figuratively. It suggests being in a better position, having more power or control, or having more favorable circumstances than others.
The idiom "high cotton" refers to a situation of great success, prosperity or abundance. It is often used to describe someone who is doing very well in terms of wealth, status or achievements.
The idiom "high and mighty" means that someone is arrogant, haughty, or acting superior to others. It refers to someone who thinks they are better or more important than everyone else.
The idiom "grass tops" refers to the highest level or upper echelons of a particular group or organization, typically consisting of influential or powerful individuals. It symbolizes the idea of reaching the top or pinnacle of success within a specific field or domain.
Influential Allies
The idiom "friends in high places" refers to having influential or powerful connections. It suggests that knowing powerful people can provide advantages or opportunities that may not be available to others. In contrast, the idiom "friends in low places" refers to having friends who are from a lower social status or position of power. While "friends in high places" implies that having influential connections can be advantageous, "friends in low places" suggests that having friends from a lower social status can provide a different kind of perspective and understanding.
Another related idiom is "good books." This phrase refers to being in favor or on good terms with someone in a position of power or authority. It implies that having a positive relationship with someone in authority can lead to favorable outcomes or treatment. This idiom is often used in the context of employment, where being on "good books" with a supervisor or manager can result in promotions, raises, or other benefits.
Having friends in high places can be beneficial in various aspects of life, including career opportunities, personal development, and even social events. In the workplace, knowing influential individuals can provide access to insider knowledge, potential job openings, or mentors who can offer guidance and support. For example, if you have a friend in a high-ranking position in a company, they may be able to give you insights into upcoming projects or recommend you for a job.
In addition, having friends in high places can also provide opportunities for personal growth and development. Surrounding yourself with successful and influential people can inspire and motivate you to aim higher and strive for your own goals and aspirations. Through their knowledge and experiences, they can offer valuable advice and insights that can help you navigate different aspects of life.
Friends in high places can play a significant role in various social endeavors and events. If you have connections to influential individuals, you may have access to exclusive parties, events, or even community projects. Your high-profile friends can introduce you to other influential people, expanding your network and potentially leading to new opportunities or collaborations.
On the other hand, "friends in low places" can also have their own advantages. Having friends from different backgrounds or with diverse perspectives can broaden your understanding of the world and help you gain different insights. These friends may have experiences and knowledge that you wouldn't have access to otherwise, providing you with a more well-rounded understanding of society. In addition, they can offer support and a different kind of companionship, as they may understand and relate to certain challenges or experiences that come with their lower social status.
Similarly, being on "good books" with someone in authority can have its own set of advantages. If you are in the good graces of your boss or supervisor, you may be given more responsibilities, opportunities for growth, or even special privileges. In this case, having a positive relationship with someone in a position of power can contribute to a more positive work environment and potentially lead to career advancement.
While having friends in high places and being on "good books" can provide various benefits, it is essential to ensure that these connections are built on genuine relationships and mutual respect. Using these relationships solely for personal gain or advantages can be seen as unethical or manipulative. Instead, it is crucial to cultivate meaningful connections and contribute to the relationship in a way that benefits both parties involved.
Having friends in high places and being on "good books" with someone in authority can provide advantages and opportunities in different aspects of life. These connections can open doors, provide access to resources and information, and even contribute to personal growth. However, it is important to approach these relationships with sincerity and respect, ensuring that they are built on mutual trust and value. Ultimately, the idiom "friends in high places" highlights the potential benefits and opportunities that can come from knowing influential individuals, while "friends in low places" and being on "good books" emphasize the value of diverse perspectives and positive relationships.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "friends in high places" can be used in a sentence:
- John was able to get a job at the company because he had friends in high places.
- Sarah's friends in high places helped her secure a meeting with the CEO of the company.
- With his friends in high places, Mark was able to avoid the usual bureaucratic hurdles.
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