Looking up...
wie der Vater, so der Sohn
/viː dɛɐ̯ ˈfaːtɐ zoː dɛɐ̯ ˈzoːn/◆proverb
children often resemble their parents in behavior or character
Wie der Vater, so der Sohn – beide lieben es, Autos zu reparieren.
Like father, like son – both love to repair cars.
informal
A proverb indicating that children often inherit or develop similar traits, behaviors, or characteristics as their parents, especially in terms of personality, habits, or skills.
Er ist sehr geduldig, genau wie sein Vater. Wie der Vater, so der Sohn.
He is very patient, just like his father. Like father, like son.
Sie ist genauso ehrgeizig wie ihre Mutter. Wie der Vater, so der Sohn.
She is just as ambitious as her mother. Like father, like son.
This proverb is often used to highlight similarities between parents and children, whether positive or negative.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Cultural Context
This proverb reflects the German cultural emphasis on family values and the idea that upbringing significantly shapes a person's character.
Word Origin
The proverb originates from German cultural observations about familial resemblance and the influence of parents on their children.
Usage Notes
This proverb is commonly used in both positive and negative contexts to describe how children often mirror their parents' behaviors or traits.
Deutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch