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Explaining "Misery loves company"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 30/09/2024, 21:13
English.me team member

What does it mean?

Misery loves company

The phrase "Misery loves company" means that people who are unhappy or suffering tend to seek out others who are in a similar situation, often to feel a sense of solidarity or shared experience.

Tone

Cynical

Origin

The origin of the phrase can be traced back to ancient times, with a similar sentiment appearing in text like "Solamen miseris socios habuisse doloris," a line from playwright Christopher Marlowe's "Doctor Faustus" in the late 16th century, which means "It is a comfort to the unfortunate to have had companions in woe."

Examples of usage

  • After the breakup, John surrounded himself with friends going through similar heartaches because misery loves company.
  • During the long and difficult march, the soldiers found some solace in their shared hardships, proving once again that misery loves company.

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