Fair-Weather Friend: Meaning, Examples & Usage

Meaning 1：fair-weather friend (fair-weather friend)

fair-weather friend 🔊

/ˈfɛrˌwɛðər ˈfrɛnd/

A friend who is only around during good times but disappears when you have problems.

fair-weather friend 🔊

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/ˈfɛrˌwɛðər ˈfrɛnd/

A person who is loyal and supportive only when you are successful or having fun, but deserts you when you face trouble or adversity.

📁 Category：Social Roles 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'fair-weather' (good conditions) and 'friend'; a companion only during favorable times.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a friend who only plays with you on sunny days and vanishes when dark clouds appear.

📖 Example

When I lost my job and needed support, many of my so-called friends disappeared, proving they were just fair-weather friends. 🔊 When I lost my job and needed support, many of my so-called friends disappeared, proving they were just fair-weather friends.

🔗 Collocations

a fair-weather friend – a friend only in good times

prove to be a fair-weather friend – to show one's lack of loyalty in difficult times

surrounded by fair-weather friends – having many acquaintances who are only around when things are going well

🔄 Synonyms

false friend (n.) – A person who pretends to be a friend but is not loyal.

opportunist (n.) – A person who takes advantage of opportunities without regard for loyalty.

social climber (n.) – Someone who tries to associate with people of higher status for personal gain.

🚫 Antonyms

true friend (n.) – A loyal and reliable friend who supports you in good and bad times.

loyal friend (n.) – A friend who remains faithful through challenges.

steadfast friend (n.) – A friend who is unwavering in support and loyalty.

🌱 Derivatives

fair-weather (adj.) – Reliable only in good times; not enduring.

📖 Cultural Story

First recorded in the 19th century, this phrase uses weather as a metaphor for life's circumstances, describing a friend who disappears when difficulties arise.