friends in low places: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘friends in low places’ mean?
The idiom "friends in low places" means having associations with people who have a low social or moral standing. These may be individuals who are not respected or accepted by society due to their behavior, reputation, or background.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "leave someone high and dry" means to abandon or forsake someone in a difficult or helpless situation without any support or assistance.
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 "keep company" means to spend time with or be in the company of someone, usually in a social or friendly manner.
The idiom "keep a low profile" means to avoid attracting attention or publicity, and to remain inconspicuous or discreet in one's actions or behavior.
The idiom "in the toilet" means that something is in a troubled or bad state, typically referring to a situation that has gone wrong or is failing. It is a casual expression that implies a negative outcome or result.
The idiom "in the hole" means to be in debt or in a difficult financial situation. It is often used to describe a person or a company that owes money and is struggling to repay it.
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 "hang out to dry" means to leave someone in a difficult or vulnerable situation without support or assistance.
The idiom "hang out" means to spend time or relax informally with friends or in a social setting without any particular purpose or activity. It conveys a casual and laid-back atmosphere and is often used to describe spending time together without any specific plans or agenda.
Uncovering Depths
Friends in low places is an idiom that originated in the United States. It refers to having acquaintances or connections who are of a lower social standing or are considered undesirable. This phrase can also imply having friends who may not be respected or valued by others in society.
The idiom is generally used to describe a person who has friendships or associations with individuals who do not possess the same level of social status, wealth, or influence. It can also be used figuratively to describe a person who aligns themselves with groups or organizations that may be disapproved of or looked down upon by others. The phrase "in low places" is used to emphasize the perceived low standing or undesirable nature of the friends being referred to.
The origins of the idiom can be traced back to various cultural contexts, such as country music and blue-collar communities. One popular explanation of the idiom's origins is its connection to the song "Friends in Low Places" by country artist Garth Brooks.
The song, released in 1990, tells the story of a person who finds comfort and support among people who are considered to be of lower social status. The lyrics of the song resonate with the idea of finding solace and authenticity in relationships that may not conform to societal expectations.
While the exact origins of the idiom may be difficult to pinpoint, its usage has become widespread and well-known in American English. The idiom has been adopted and used in various contexts, including literature, music, and everyday conversation.
Its popularity and continued usage suggest that the concept of having friends in low places resonates with a certain segment of the population.
Overall, the idiom" friends in low places" reflects the idea of having relationships or connections with individuals who may not have the same social standing or societal approval. It conveys a sense of camaraderie and loyalty, as well as a willingness to look beyond societal hierarchies and judgments.
An idiom similar to "friends in low places" is "friends in high places". This idiom refers to having influential or powerful friends who can help a person achieve their goals or navigate difficult situations. Whereas "friends in low places" is about having friends who may not be respected by society, "friends in high places" is about having connections with influential individuals who may be able to offer support, opportunities, or protection.
Having "friends in high places" can provide advantages and open doors that may not be available to others. It can give a person access to resources, information, and opportunities that can enhance their chances of success. However, it is important to keep in mind that relying solely on "friends in high places" may not always be a reliable or sustainable strategy. True success often comes from a combination of hard work, talent, and genuine relationships with a diverse group of people.
Another related idiom is "bad company". This idiom refers to the idea that the people one associates with can have a negative influence on their behavior or actions. The phrase "bad company" suggests that being surrounded by individuals who engage in negative or immoral activities can lead a person astray or cause them to make poor decisions.
The idiom serves as a reminder that the company one keeps can have a significant impact on their character, reputation, and overall well-being. It emphasizes the importance of choosing friends and associations wisely, as their actions and behaviors can reflect on an individual and potentially lead to unfavorable consequences.
The idiom "friends in low places" originated in the United States and refers to having acquaintances or connections who are of a lower social standing or are considered undesirable. It conveys a sense of camaraderie and loyalty, and signifies an acceptance and appreciation for individuals who may be considered outsiders or marginalized by society. Another related idiom is "friends in high places," which highlights the benefits of having influential connections. The idiom "bad company" warns about the negative influence of the people one associates with. These idioms remind us of the impact that our friendships and associations can have on our lives, and the importance of choosing them wisely.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "friends in low places" can be used in a sentence:
1. Despite being from an affluent family, she always had friends in low places.
2. He was able to get insider information about the company from his friends in low places.
3. When he fell on hard times, he turned to his friends in low places for support.
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