Grammar Tips & Articles »

Should I use "oldest friend" or "longest friend"?

Both "oldest friend" and "longest friend" are correct, but they can have slightly different connotations.


50 sec read
10,103 Views
  Courtney Emerson  —  Grammar Tips
Font size:

"Oldest friend" typically refers to a friend that a person has known for the most amount of time, regardless of how often they may see or communicate with each other. It emphasizes the length of the friendship, and suggests a deeper connection or history.

On the other hand, "longest friend" can also refer to a friend that a person has known for a long time, but it may also imply a more frequent or ongoing relationship. It emphasizes the duration of the friendship, but not necessarily the depth of the connection.

In general, both phrases are interchangeable and can be used depending on the context and personal preference of the speaker. If you want to emphasize the length of the friendship and the deep connection you have with this friend, "oldest friend" might be more appropriate. If you want to emphasize the duration of the friendship and the fact that you still keep in touch and maintain a close relationship, "longest friend" might be a better fit.

Rate this article:

Have a discussion about this article with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add this article to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "Should I use "oldest friend" or "longest friend"?." Grammar.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 21 Dec. 2024. <https://www.grammar.com/should_i_use_"oldest_friend"_or_"longest_friend">.

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Check your text and writing for style, spelling and grammar problems everywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Check your text and writing for style, spelling and grammar problems everywhere on the web!

    Free Writing Tool:

    Instant
    Grammar Checker

    Improve your grammar, vocabulary, style, and writing — all for FREE!


    Quiz

    Are you a grammar master?

    »
    Choose the sentence with correct use of the indefinite pronoun:
    A Someone forgot his jacket.
    B Each of the students are presenting their project.
    C Everybody is invited to the party.
    D Few has completed the assignment on time.

    Improve your writing now:

    Download Grammar eBooks

    It’s now more important than ever to develop a powerful writing style. After all, most communication takes place in reports, emails, and instant messages.