like mother, like daughter: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘like mother, like daughter’ mean?
The idiom "like mother, like daughter" means that a daughter has similar qualities or behaves in a similar way to her mother.
Idiom Explorer
The apple does not fall far from the tree means that a child usually has similar qualities or characteristics to their parent.
The idiom "run in the family" means that a certain trait, characteristic, or talent is common among the members of a family, indicating a strong genetic or hereditary influence.
The idiom *one and the same* means that two or more things or people are identical or indistinguishable from each other.
The idiom "much of a muchness" means that two or more things are very similar or almost identical in value or quality.
The idiom "mother hen" refers to a person, typically a woman, who is overly protective and concerned for the well-being of others, especially those in her care.
The idiom "more often than not" means that something is likely to happen or be true most of the time, although there may be exceptions occasionally.
The idiom "measure up" means to be equal to or reach a certain standard or expectation.
The idiom "mama's boy" refers to a man, usually a son, who is overly attached to his mother and seeks her approval and attention in an excessive or dependent manner.
The idiom "make like a tree and leave" means to exit or to leave a place quickly or abruptly, comparing the action to a tree that naturally sways or moves with the wind and then leaves its location.
Inherited Likeness
the apple does not fall far from the tree. This idiom perfectly captures the essence of the popular expression "like mother, like daughter." It emphasizes the strong connection and similarities between a mother and her daughter, suggesting that the daughter tends to inherit various traits, qualities, or behaviors from her mother. And indeed, the idiom holds true in many cases, highlighting the influence of family and genetics on an individual's character and personality.
Throughout history, cultures worldwide have recognized and expressed the idea of resemblance between parents and children. The idiom "like mother, like daughter" is just one manifestation of this universal concept. Similar sayings, such as "like father, like son," echo the parallelism between fathers and sons, further illustrating the breadth and depth of this concept.
When exploring the idiom "like mother, like daughter," it is worth noting that it encompasses more than just physical traits. While physical resemblance can be striking, the idiom also encompasses personality traits, habits, interests, and values. It speaks to the notion that daughters often follow in their mother's footsteps in various aspects of life, embodying not only their appearance but also their character.
It's fascinating to consider how this idiom covers both positive and negative qualities. On one hand, it can be used to highlight shared virtues such as intelligence, talent, or kindness. On the other hand, it can also describe negative attributes like stubbornness or selfishness. The idiom encompasses the full range of traits and behaviors that may be passed down from one generation to the next.
The idiom "like mother, like daughter" isn't limited to biological relationships either. It can be used figuratively to describe the resemblance between two unrelated individuals, particularly in terms of character or behavior. This broadens the scope and applicability of the expression, highlighting the significance of influence and imitation in shaping one's identity.
Looking at the historical and cultural usage of this idiom, it becomes clear that the concept of parental influence on children has long been recognized across various societies. It reflects an understanding of the powerful impact that parents, and particularly mothers, have on the development and upbringing of their offspring. The idiom serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics within family relationships and the role that a mother plays in shaping her daughter's identity.
At the same time, it is important to remember that while similarities between mothers and daughters can exist, every individual is unique and possesses their own distinct identity. The idiom "like mother, like daughter" captures a common human experience, but it shouldn't overshadow the individuality and autonomy that each person possesses. It serves as a starting point for reflection and exploration, inviting us to consider the complex interplay between nature and nurture in shaping who we are.
Finally, when we consider "like mother, like daughter" alongside the idioms "the apple does not fall far from the tree" and "cut from the same cloth," a broader picture of familial resemblance emerges. These idioms all highlight the inherent connection and similarity between family members. In the case of "the apple does not fall far from the tree," it emphasizes the idea that children often exhibit traits and behaviors similar to their parents, just as an apple falls near the tree it originated from. Similarly, "cut from the same cloth" suggests that individuals share common characteristics and qualities due to their shared heritage or upbringing. These idioms further underscore the intergenerational ties and the impact of familial relationships on shaping an individual's identity.
The idiom "like mother, like daughter" encapsulates the idea that daughters often resemble their mothers, not only in physical appearance but also in personality traits, habits, and values. It speaks to the profound influence of parental upbringing and genetics on an individual's character and behavior. However, it is essential to acknowledge that each individual is unique and possesses their own distinct identity. The idiom invites us to reflect on the complexities of family relationships and the interplay between nature and nurture in shaping who we are. When viewed alongside other idioms like "the apple does not fall far from the tree" and "cut from the same cloth," a comprehensive understanding of familial resemblance emerges, highlighting the inherent connection and similarity between family members.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "like mother, like daughter" can be used in a sentence:
- She has a talent for singing just like her mother - like mother, like daughter.
- Both mother and daughter have a great sense of fashion - like mother, like daughter.
- They have the same stubbornness and determination - like mother, like daughter.
More "Family" idioms
