Many of us feel that we have close, genuine friendships, but may not give too much thought to how we would actually define such a thing. A boyfriend or girlfriend can be someone you have been close to for years, or someone who is brand new in your life. It can be someone you bond with over your favorite sport or show TV, or maybe a new friend you met at school or work. A friend can come from all walks of our life.



In this article we will think about what friendship is and how to tell a good friend from a bad friend based on some possible signs.
What is friendship?
So what is friendship? Most of us understand a friend to be someone we feel connected to and who is there for us in some way. A friend is often someone with whom you have a bond. With friends, you may share some common beliefs and values, and often a friend is someone you trust and enjoy being with. Friends can be in person or online, and they can vary in distance. You may have a friend who lives next door, or a friend who is thousands of miles away.
Some friends are more casual; you may talk sometimes and enjoy each other's company, but the connection may not be very strong. With close friends, you may feel more connected and feel that you can count on their support. You can talk and laugh easily and share openly. This friendship can feel very reliable, and this friend can make it easy for you to pick up where you left off. Good friendships and good friends often stand the test of time. These relationships are often based on mutual respect and concern for each other's well-being.
What is the difference between a friend and an acquaintance? An acquaintance is a person you talk to occasionally and may see at a dinner or other social event, but there is not the bond of a friend or personal relationship. An acquaintance is probably not the person with whom you talk about problems as you would with a close friend. However, some acquaintances can become friends if we give them a chance. The main characteristic of a friend in this case is someone you spend more time with, trust, and feel connected to.
Possible signs of a good friend
Now that we have a sense of friendship in general, let us look at some possible characteristics of a good friend. Here are some possible signs that you have a real friend and a good, healthy friendship:



1. A friend is there for you
A good friend is often someone who is always there for you, whether through simple words or grand gestures. A good friend will not abandon you because you are going through a hard time or are sad. Good friends often realize that life can be hard sometimes, and they will be there for you when that happens. A good friend stays by your side, and a true friendship is one that perseveres through these trials and stays strong.
2. A friend listens to you
A good friend is often someone you can be vulnerable and open with. They are often someone you feel comfortable with because you feel like they are really listening and interested in what you have to say.
3. They feel good when you are around them
With a good friend you like to spend time, and you feel good when you are around them. With a good friend, you can laugh, have fun, feel connected, and generally enjoy each other's company. Instead of worrying about being judged, you can often feel comfortable and confident around good friends.
4. They are empathetic towards you
A good friend will often listen to your problems and show that he or she likes you. A good friend will often try to understand where you are coming from and give you the space to express your feelings. A good friend will usually not be judgmental or dismissive.
5. They are able to apologize and forgive
In a long-term friendship, there will likely be arguments from time to time. Good friends acknowledge this reality and are able to apologize and forgive, within reason of course. Good friends can forgive each other and continue to maintain a positive friendship.
Possible signs of a bad friend
If you are questioning your friendship with someone, there are some signs that someone might not be a good friend for you. Here are a few signs you should look out for:



1. They are only around when they need something
Some "friends" only want to spend time with you when they need something. They have become friends and built that relationship in a comfortable way, and if you give them what they need, they may stop acting like friends. Friends can help each other, but if the help is one-sided or if the friend is only there when they want something from you, it may be a sign that you are being used by a friend. These are probably not positive friendships.
2. You often talk badly about other friends
If your boyfriend or girlfriend often talks badly about other friends to you, you should consider whether he or she is also talking badly about you