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AI for Breakfast
Post 151 - It’s the weekend - Idiom of the day
Like father, like son
Figurative meaning
"Like father, like son" means that a son is similar to his father, especially in terms of behavior, character, or talents. It suggests that children often inherit their parents' traits or tendencies.
Typical usage
This idiom is typically used to comment on how a son resembles his father. It can be used positively, such as praising a son for inheriting his father's good qualities, or negatively, noting that a son has taken on some of his father's less desirable traits.
- Positive Example: "John has the same talent for music as his dad. Like father, like son!"
- Negative Example: "Tom is just as stubborn as his father. Like father, like son."
Origin
The origin of the phrase "Like father, like son" is not definitively known, but it has been a common saying in various cultures for centuries. The sentiment it expresses is a universal one, recognized in many languages and societies.
The idea that children inherit traits from their parents can be traced back to ancient times. The Bible, for example, has several verses that reflect similar sentiments. One such verse is Ezekiel 16:44, which says, "Everyone who quotes proverbs will quote this proverb about you: 'Like mother, like daughter.'"
The English phrase "Like father, like son" first appeared in written form in the late 17th century and has been widely used ever since. The enduring popularity of the idiom highlights the universal recognition of familial resemblance and the passing down of characteristics from one generation to the next.
