“The only way to find a friend is to be one”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
This phrase means that in order to find true friendship, one must exhibit qualities of a good friend, such as kindness, empathy, and support. Being a friend to others encourages the formation of reciprocal and genuine friendships.
Tone Encouraging
Where it comes from
The best-known form is The only way to have a friend is to be one, from Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay Friendship (1841).
Examples
- When John moved to a new city, he remembered that the only way to find a friend is to be one, so he started volunteering in the community to meet new people.
- Lisa always keeps in mind that the only way to find a friend is to be one, so she makes an effort to reach out and help her classmates.
- After hearing the advice that the only way to find a friend is to be one, Tim began reaching out more to his colleagues and offering his support.
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