Of all the qualities a good friend can have, which three matter most to you, in order?

A natural way to answer

For me it's trust first, because without it nothing else holds. Second would be reliability, the kind of person who follows through on what they say. And third, kindness, the small, everyday sort that's easy to overlook.

Key phrases to use

• have your back — to support and defend someone, especially when they're in trouble“I know she'll always have my back.”
• take a joke — to be able to laugh at yourself when others tease you good-naturedly“He's great fun because he can take a joke.”
• follows through — to do what you said you would do, completing it properly“He always follows through on a promise.”
• stands firm — to stay loyal or hold a position without giving in under pressure“She stood firm when everyone doubted me.”
• lift your spirits — to make you feel happier and more cheerful“A quick chat with her always lifts my spirits.”