What Should a Person Have to Be Considered a Friend?

[joselync]

Friendship is a complex and subjective concept, and different people may have varying criteria for considering someone a friend. However, there are some common attributes that are often associated with genuine friendships. Here are some qualities that a person might have to be considered a friend:

Trustworthiness: A friend should be someone you can trust and rely on. Trust is fundamental in any friendship.

Mutual Respect: There should be a sense of respect for each other's values, opinions, and boundaries. A true friend values and appreciates you for who you are.

Reciprocity: Friendship is a two-way street. Both parties should contribute to the relationship, offering support, understanding, and time.

Communication: Open and honest communication is key in any friendship. Friends should feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.

Reliability: A good friend is someone you can count on. They show up when they say they will and can be relied upon during both good and bad times.

Shared Interests: While it's not necessary to have everything in common, shared interests can help strengthen a friendship and provide common ground for activities and conversations.

Empathy: A friend should be able to understand and share in your feelings. They offer empathy and support when you're going through difficult times.

Loyalty: Friends stand by each other through thick and thin. Loyalty is an important quality in lasting friendships.

Acceptance: A true friend accepts you for who you are, flaws and all. They don't try to change you but appreciate you for your uniqueness.

Fun and Enjoyment: Friendship often involves having fun together and enjoying each other's company. Shared laughter and good times contribute to a positive and fulfilling friendship.

[Ewan Green]

“A real friend isn’t defined by how long you’ve known them, but by the qualities they bring into your life. Trust, loyalty, honesty, and genuine care are the basics. A true friend supports you in tough times, celebrates your wins, respects your boundaries, and understands you without judgment. Friendship is about consistency, empathy, and the comfort of knowing someone truly has your back.”

[Harrycarter]

A true friend is someone who offers genuine support, empathy, and trust. Friendship is built on mutual respect—where both people feel heard, valued, and understood. A real friend doesn’t disappear during difficult times; they stand beside you, encourage you, and provide honest guidance. They celebrate your successes without jealousy and accept you as you are, flaws included. Ultimately, being considered a friend means showing consistency, loyalty, and emotional care, creating a bond that feels comforting, authentic, and lasting.

[EllaWarner]

To be considered a friend, a person should offer trust, support, and genuine care. They should be reliable, showing up when needed, and be willing to listen without judgment. Friendship is built on shared experiences and mutual respect, where both parties feel valued and understood. A true friend is someone who makes you feel comfortable being yourself, who helps you grow, and who stays by your side through good times and bad, without expecting anything in return.

[Harrycarter]

A true friend isn’t defined by grand gestures — it’s the small, consistent qualities that make the bond meaningful. To be considered a friend, a person should offer trust, honesty, and genuine care. They should stand by you in good and difficult times, not just when it’s convenient. A friend listens without judgement, respects your boundaries, and supports your goals rather than competing with them.

Most importantly, a real friend accepts you as you are but also encourages you to grow. They celebrate your wins, understand your flaws, and create a safe space where you can be yourself. In the end, friendship is built on mutual respect, kindness, and reliability — qualities that make someone more than just a companion, but a true part of your life.

[hazel]

This is a thoughtful and well-balanced reflection on what truly defines friendship. It highlights that being a friend is not about grand gestures but about consistency, sincerity, and emotional presence. Trust, loyalty, empathy, and mutual respect really do form the foundation of meaningful human connection.

I especially appreciate the reminder that friendship is a two-way relationship—reciprocity and communication keep it healthy and strong. At the end of the day, the best friendships are those where both people feel supported, valued, and free to be themselves. True friendship isn’t measured by time, but by genuine care and understanding.

[petersmith]

A person can be considered a friend when they show trust, honesty, and consistency. A true friend listens without judgment, supports you in tough times, and celebrates your successes. Mutual respect, understanding, and genuine care matter more than constant contact or convenience.