fair-weather friend

1. A friend who supports others only when it is easy and convenient to do so: “I thought Gene would always stick by me, but when I got into trouble, he turned out to be a fair-weather friend.”

Idioms and Phrases

A person who is dependable in good times but is not in times of trouble. For example, You can't rely on Sarah—she's strictly a fair-weather friend . This expression likens fair weather to good times. [Early 1700s]

Example Sentences

She was not a fair-weather friend, and since Jennie was good enough to offer her a home she felt she ought to go at once.

From Project Gutenberg

She is a fair-weather friend, and shrinks with the most charming frankness from those on whom dark days have fallen.

From Project Gutenberg

Now all was well once more and Mrs. Ward, who had been no fair-weather friend to Italy, rejoiced with all her heart.

From Project Gutenberg

"Ask him what he wants," I cried, turning to our fair-weather friend, the cook.

From Project Gutenberg

Could they drive a wedge between us by showing that we were a fair-weather friend whom any stress would alienate.

From Project Gutenberg