English 
español 
française 
italiano 
deutsche 
日本語 
polski 
česky 
svenska 
Türkçe 
Nederlands 
Explaining “False friends are worse than open enemies”
Anwar Kareem 04/11/2024, 07:53English.me team member
What does it mean?
The phrase means that people who pretend to be your friends but secretly wish you harm or act against your interests are more dangerous than those who admit to being your enemies.
Tone
Cautionary
Origin
The phrase has its roots in proverbial wisdom and has been expressed in various forms throughout history. It emphasizes the dangers of deceit and the value of honest relationships.
Examples of usage
- After the betrayal, Sarah realized that false friends are worse than open enemies.
- Thinking of her colleague's sabotage, it hit her that false friends are indeed worse than open enemies.
- In his speech, he warned against insincere alliances, stating, "False friends are worse than open enemies."
Recommended posts in 
Phrases
The early bird catches the worm
The phrase means that people who wake up early or ... Learn more →
Revenge is a dish best served cold
The phrase means that revenge is often more satisfying if ... Learn more →
You cannot win them all
The phrase means that it is unrealistic to expect success ... Learn more →
One swallow does not make a summer
The phrase means that a single occurrence or sign does ... Learn more →