Definition:
Nearest and Dearest - Noun - One’s closest and fondest companions, friends, and/or relatives. Often used ironically to describe those who feel more like adversaries than allies.
Synonyms:
- Close companions
- Cherished friends
- Beloved kin
- Intimate allies
- Favored fellows
Antonyms:
- Distant acquaintances
- Perceived enemies
- Disliked individuals
- Estranged kin
Related Expressions:
- “Blood is thicker than water” - Implying familial bonds are more enduring than friendships.
- “Thick as thieves” - Close friends who are instinctively aligned.
- “My better half” - A term of endearment for a cherished partner.
- “In cahoots” - Partners in crime, often used humorously.
Humor-filled Quotes:
- “Friends come and go, but enemies accumulate.” – Arthur Bloch
- “We are all born mad. Some remain so.” – Samuel Beckett, Waiting for Godot
- “A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.” - Elbert Hubbard
- “We are best friends. Always remember that if you fall, I will pick you up… after I finish laughing.” – Fake Confucius quote
Literature & Cultural References:
- Henry IV, Part 1 by William Shakespeare – A classic exploration of complex relationships between family and allies.
- Best Friends Forever: A Novel by Jennifer Weiner – A humorous take on adult friendship.
- Friends (TV Show) – The iconic sitcom depicting the intertwined lives of six friends in New York City.
- Stepmom (1998) – A film exploring the dynamics of family, friendships, and complicated relationships.
Proverbs:
- “A friend to all is a friend to none.”
- “A friend in need is a friend indeed.”
- “Keep your friends close and your enemies closer.”
Suggested Reading:
- Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
- The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Suggested Movies:
- Stand by Me (1986)
- The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005)
- The Big Chill (1983)
- The Intouchables (2011)
Songs:
- Lean On Me by Bill Withers – A soulful song about support and friendship.
- With a Little Help from My Friends by The Beatles – Celebrates camaraderie and mutual aid.
- I’ll Be There for You by The Rembrandts – The theme song for “Friends,” highlighting commitment in relationships.
Quizzes:
### Which phrase best describes 'nearest and dearest'?
- [x] Closest friends and family
- [ ] Casual acquaintances at work
- [ ] Public figures you admire
- [ ] Strangers you encounter daily
> **Explanation:** "Nearest and dearest" specifically refers to one's closest friends and relatives.
### What does 'blood is thicker than water' imply?
- [x] Family bonds are stronger than friendships.
- [ ] It's easier to drink water than cut flesh.
- [ ] Thicker blood means better health.
- [ ] Blood relatives are the only ones worth keeping.
> **Explanation:** The phrase is often used to indicate that family ties are more enduring and important than those made with non-relatives.
### Identify the ironic use of 'nearest and dearest':
- [ ] Going to my cousin's wedding.
- [ ] Visiting my parent's house.
- [x] Inviting only my nearest and dearest enemies.
- [ ] Attending a family reunion.
> **Explanation:** 'Nearest and dearest enemies' uses irony by juxtaposing affection with opposition.
** Inspirational Farewell Thought:** “Life’s journey is best traveled with those who lift us up, laugh with us, support our dreams, and stand by us in the face of adversity. Cherish your nearest and dearest, but also learn to see with humor the complex, and sometimes ironic, beauty of those relationships.”
