like father, like son

Idiom

Like Father, Like Son

Definition

This proverb, which is also sometimes phrased as ‘like mother, like daughter’, is used to express the idea that a child often takes after their parent in terms of behaviour, character, and values.

Examples

My father always loved tinkering with cars, and I guess like father, like son – I have inherited the same passion.

John’s mother was highly intelligent and studied at Oxford, and like father, like son, John has achieved excellent grades in his studies.

My dad was an avid reader and taught me the importance of reading from a young age – like father, like son, I now enjoy reading in my spare time.

Origin

The origin of this phrase is unknown, but is thought to have been used for centuries.

FAQs

Q

Can this phrase be used for daughters as well?

A

Yes, it can also be phrased as ‘like mother, like daughter’.