Difference between 知音 and 朋友?

[calibre2001]

My dictionary says 知音 is 'a person who is deeply appreciative of someone's abilities' whereas online dictionaries tend to say friend.

Hope someone can clear up on the differences. Thanks.

[Horse]

It comes from the story of 伯牙and 钟子期 doesn't it. It was only really 钟子期 who could understand the meaning of what 伯牙played, so when 钟子期 died 伯牙 smashed up his zither. I would say that the meaning is closer to 'soulmate' or very close friend, definitely not just an average mate

[calibre2001]

Closer than 兄弟？

[skylee]

知音 is someone who knows about your heart. 兄弟 is someone who is as close to you as you siblings. You decide which is closer. 朋友 means "friend".

Regarding 兄弟, you may also wish to know we have this saying, "兄弟如手足，夫妻如衣服".

[vampire]

知音 generally means a person who is deeply appreciative of someone's talent and can truly understand what someone wants to express, 知己 is more accurate for very very good friend, closer than 兄弟