A las duras y a las maduras

through thick and thin; **through thick and thin**; **in good times and bad**; **come what may**; **no matter what**; **for better or worse** (especially in relationships)

A las duras y a las maduras means through thick and thin, in good times and bad, no matter what, or come what may.

It expresses loyalty, perseverance and commitment despite changing circumstances.

• loyal friendships
• committed relationships
• family support
• teamwork
• standing by someone during difficult times
• remaining faithful to a cause

Like so much idiomatic language, it distils an everyday observation into a memorable phrase.

The expression is generally believed to come from agriculture and fruit growing.

Fruit that is hard is not yet ready, while ripe fruit represents abundance and favourable conditions.

By mentioning both stages, the idiom came to symbolise all kinds of circumstances, whether difficult or favourable.

Over time, it became a metaphor for unwavering loyalty and perseverance.

The expression is strongly associated with:

• friendship,
• marriage,
• family,
• and solidarity.

It often conveys admiration for people who remain loyal despite hardship.

Although frequently emotional, it is suitable for both everyday speech and formal writing.

Many languages use paired opposites to express loyalty:

• A las duras y a las maduras → through thick and thin.
• En las buenas y en las malas → in good times and bad.
• Contra viento y marea → against all odds.
• Pase lo que pase → whatever happens.

Among them, a las duras y a las maduras is one of the most traditional and elegant ways of expressing steadfast loyalty under every circumstance.

Do not translate the expression literally.

English speakers would never say:

Through the hard ones and the ripe ones.

Instead, use expressions such as:

• through thick and thin
• in good times and bad
• for better or worse
• no matter what

Choose the translation according to the relationship being described.