How Do You Spell BLOOD IS THICKER THAN WATER?

Pronunciation: [blˈʌd ɪz θˈɪkə ðɐn wˈɔːtə] (IPA)

The saying "blood is thicker than water" is commonly misinterpreted to mean that family ties are inherently more important than any other relationships. However, the original phrase was "the blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb," meaning that bonds formed through shared experiences and commitments are stronger than those formed through genetics alone. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word "blood" is spelled /blʌd/, with the "l" sound being especially important in distinguishing it from the similar word "bud."

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BLOOD IS THICKER THAN WATER Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "blood is thicker than water" is an idiomatic expression that conveys the idea that the bonds of family are stronger and more significant than any other social or personal relationships. It suggests that family ties, symbolized by blood, are inherently more important and enduring than friendships or relationships that are not based on kinship, symbolized by water.

    This expression emphasizes the idea that family members have an inherent obligation to support and prioritize one another above others. It implies that blood relatives should stand together in times of need and make sacrifices for each other because of the deep-rooted connection they share through common ancestry.

    The origin of this phrase can be traced back to medieval times when the full proverb was "blood of the covenant is thicker than water of the womb," suggesting that sworn companionship and loyalty formed in times of hardship were stronger than the family ties one is born into. However, over time, the proverb went through numerous adaptations, resulting in the commonly used version today.

    While the phrase is often used to highlight the strong bond within families, it does not negate the value of non-familial relationships. Rather, it serves as a reminder of the unique commitment and responsibility that family members have towards one another, based on shared heritage and profound emotional connections.

Idioms with the word BLOOD IS THICKER THAN WATER

  • blood is thicker than water This idiom means that family relationships and loyalties are stronger and more important than other relationships or friendships.