One old friend beats two new ones.

What it means

Trust is built over years, and it cannot be replaced quickly. A friend who has seen you at your worst is worth more than a crowd of new acquaintances. Look after the friendships you already have.

The source

"One old friend beats two new ones." This Russian proverb is recorded in Dal, Proverbs of the Russian People (1862), "Friend — Foe" («Друг — Недруг»). Translated from the original Russian by Spartan Surfers.

"Старый друг лучше новых двух."

Original Russian, Dal, Proverbs of the Russian People (1862), "Friend — Foe" («Друг — Недруг»). Text read at ru.wikisource.org.

Who said it

Proverbs of the world (Every age). Sayings from the Latin, Greek, Norse, Japanese, Chinese and more, each traced to an old source in its own language.

Questions

What does "One old friend beats two new ones." mean?

Trust is built over years, and it cannot be replaced quickly. A friend who has seen you at your worst is worth more than a crowd of new acquaintances. Look after the friendships you already have.

Who said "One old friend beats two new ones."?

Russian proverb. Source: Dal, Proverbs of the Russian People (1862), "Friend — Foe" («Друг — Недруг»).

What is the original Russian?

Старый друг лучше новых двух. Translated from the original Russian by Spartan Surfers.

Is "One old friend beats two new ones." on a shirt?

Yes. We print it to order on our tees in 7 illustrated looks, from $44, with free US shipping.

"One old friend beats two new ones." (Russian proverb, Dal, Proverbs of the Russian People (1862), "Friend — Foe" («Друг — Недруг»), translated by Spartan Surfers). https://spartansurfers.com/quotes/one-old-friend-beats-two-new-ones