Meaning
To have a very close and trustworthy friendship, implying one can rely on them for anything.
Cultural Background
In Germany, this phrase is a classic. It is widely understood and used across all generations, though more common among older speakers. Austrians use the same phrase, often with a slightly more relaxed, humorous tone. Swiss Germans also use this, though they might prefer 'Mit dem kann man durchs Feuer gehen' (go through fire) in some regions. In the North, people are often more reserved, so hearing this phrase is a very high compliment.
Use it sparingly
It is a strong compliment. Don't use it for every acquaintance.
Context matters
Only use it in informal settings. It sounds weird in a job interview.
Meaning
To have a very close and trustworthy friendship, implying one can rely on them for anything.
Use it sparingly
It is a strong compliment. Don't use it for every acquaintance.
Context matters
Only use it in informal settings. It sounds weird in a job interview.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence with the correct phrase.
Er ist mein bester Freund. Mit ihm kann man ________.
This is the standard idiom for deep trust.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the best way to describe a very loyal friend.
Only the first option uses the correct idiomatic structure.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Warum vertraust du ihr so sehr? B: ________
This is the most natural response to explain deep trust.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You want to describe your best friend of 20 years.
This idiom is reserved for long-term, deep friendships.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesEr ist mein bester Freund. Mit ihm kann man ________.
This is the standard idiom for deep trust.
Choose the best way to describe a very loyal friend.
Only the first option uses the correct idiomatic structure.
A: Warum vertraust du ihr so sehr? B: ________
This is the most natural response to explain deep trust.
You want to describe your best friend of 20 years.
This idiom is reserved for long-term, deep friendships.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsYes, it is a great way to say you trust your partner completely.
No, it is a very positive, high compliment.
Only if you have a very close, informal relationship.
It doesn't matter, it is just an idiom!
Yes, it is a very well-known idiom.
No, that sounds like you are committing a crime.
Yes, it requires understanding idiomatic usage.
Yes, but this is the most common one.
Only in a personal letter to a friend.
No, it is purely metaphorical.
Focus on the 'Pf' and 'sht' sounds.
Yes, 'Mit euch kann man Pferde stehlen'.
Related Phrases
Durch dick und dünn gehen
similarTo go through thick and thin
Sich blind verstehen
similarTo understand each other blindly
Ein Herz und eine Seele sein
similarTo be one heart and one soul
Auf jemanden zählen können
builds onTo be able to count on someone
