The company somebody keeps

usgb
noun

The people with whom one spends a lot of time.

You can tell a lot about a person by observing the company they keep.
Visual representation of "the company somebody keeps" - The people with whom one spends a lot of time

Often appears as...

  • keep good company
  • keep bad company

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "the company somebody keeps"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Social Judgment

The phrase often implies how others view someone based on their friends.

Illustration for Social Judgment
A politician should be mindful of the company they keep.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Neutral or Positive

This definition can be used in positive contexts unlike the other one.

Illustration for Neutral or Positive
She keeps the company of intellectuals and artists.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Reflects Personal Values

It suggests that the friends one chooses reflect their own values or character.

Illustration for Reflects Personal Values
He's truly generous, as seen by the company he keeps.
Visual representation of the word "The company somebody keeps"

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