“Misery Loves Company” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 15, 2024 by Liam Daniel

The idiomatic phrase “misery loves company” is a phrase that you may encounter frequently. In the sections to follow, you can discover the definition of this phrase and its origin story.

You will also see some sample conversations and statements that will aid you in seeing how the phrase is used properly in everyday communication and you will also gain knowledge of how to say this phrase using other terms while still stating the same meaning.

Misery Loves Company Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • “Misery loves company” means that people who are unhappy or suffering often seek out others who are experiencing similar feelings. It suggests that sharing troubles can provide comfort and a sense of connection among those who are struggling.
Misery Loves Company Meaning
Misery Loves Company Meaning – Created by 7ESL

Misery Loves Company Meaning

The phrase “misery loves company” means that people who are unhappy or suffering often seek out others who are also experiencing similar feelings. It suggests that individuals find comfort or solace in sharing their troubles with others, as it can make them feel less isolated in their pain. The idea is that shared suffering can provide a sense of connection and understanding among those who are struggling.

  • “When I heard about her problems, I wasn’t surprised to see her hanging out with others who were also feeling down—misery loves company.”
  • “He called his friends to complain about his job; after all, misery loves company.”

Origin of this Proverb

The phrase, or proverb, “misery loves company” began as a Latin phrase sometime in the 14th century. It was first written by an Italian historian. Sometime during the 17th century, this Latin phrase was shortened into the English “misery loves company” by author Christopher Marlowe for his play titled Doctor Faustus. It has been used widely since.

Usage of “Misery Loves Company”

Here are some examples of how the phrase “misery loves company” can be used in different contexts:

  1. In a conversation about friends:
    • “When they started complaining about their jobs together, I realized misery loves company.”
  2. In discussing relationships:
    • “She called her friends to vent about her breakup, proving that misery loves company.”
  3. In a lighthearted context:
    • “We all gathered to share our recent disappointments—misery loves company, after all.”
  4. In a support group:
    • “Hearing others share their struggles reminded me that misery loves company; we’re not alone in our feelings.”
  5. In a humorous context:
    • “Whenever it rains, my friends and I complain about the weather together. Guess misery loves company!”

Related Terms to “Misery Loves Company”

  • Shared suffering – The concept that experiencing difficulties together can provide comfort and solidarity.
  • Strength in numbers – Suggests that people are more empowered and supported when they are together, especially in tough times.
  • United in pain – Refers to people coming together because they are experiencing similar hardships.
  • Commiserate – To express sorrow or sympathy for someone’s misfortune.
  • Birds of a feather flock together – Indicates that people with similar difficulties or experiences tend to associate with each other.
  • Misery loves company, but happiness seeks solitude – A saying that contrasts how people often band together in times of distress but may prefer solitude in times of joy.
  • Woe is me – A phrase expressing self-pity, often used when someone is seeking sympathy for their troubles.
  • Sorrow shared is halved – Suggests that sharing one’s sadness with others can lighten the burden.
  • A shoulder to cry on – Refers to someone who offers comfort and support during difficult times.

Alternatives to “Misery Loves Company”

Some alternative ways you can say this phrase include:

  • People who are miserable like the company of other miserable people
  • Miserable people are comforted knowing they are not alone
  • Unhappy people thrive knowing others are also unhappy

“Misery Loves Company” Examples

Example Statements

A statement made by a celebrity when asked during an interview about her closest childhood friend.

  • “We had some good times, but then in high school things changed and we had to part ways. She got into a lot of trouble with the law and was just miserable. Since misery loves company, she tried to drag me down with her, but I didn’t want to go that route.”

A statement made by a local school official about his feelings of social media.

  • “All forms of social media are merely proof that misery loves company.”

Example Conversations

A conversation between two good friends over dinner.

  • Friend 1: Jan has been annoying me all day again!
  • Friend 2: Oh I know. She has been complaining about her life all day to me and saying how miserable she is.
  • Friend 1: Right?! It’s like she wants us to be miserable too!
  • Friend 2: Well, they do say misery loves company.

A conversation between two co-workers regarding another co-worker in the office.

  • Co-worker 1: Paul is miserable today.
  • Co-worker 2: That’s because the manager yelled at him earlier about something. I could hear it outside his office door.
  • Co-worker 1: That explains it I guess, but no need to take it out on everyone else.
  • Co-worker 2: Unfortunately, misery loves company.

Helpful examples:

  • Her boss criticized her this morning, and misery loves company.
  • Misery loves company. Let me stay here and help you.
  • Misery loves company. Call me any time you’re in trouble again.
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