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Wie die Eltern, so die Kinder

/viː diː ˈɛl.tɐn, zoː diː ˈkɪn.dɐ/
proverb★Intermediate— Children often resemble or behave like their parents◆proverb
◆ What It Really Means
Children tend to inherit or develop similar traits, behaviors, or characteristics as their parents, highlighting the influence of upbringing and genetics.
¶ Literal Meaning
As the parents, so the children
Literal Breakdown
Wie die ElternAs the parents+so die Kinderso the children
◇ Mental Image
The proverb evokes the image of children naturally following in their parents' footsteps, whether in behavior, values, or personality traits.
◈ When to Use
A teacher might say this when noticing that a student has similar habits to their parents, such as being organized or creative.
◉ Cultural Note
This proverb is widely recognized in German-speaking cultures and is often used to explain why children often resemble their parents in various ways.
informal

This proverb suggests that children tend to inherit or develop similar traits, behaviors, or characteristics as their parents, whether positive or negative.

Wie die Eltern, so die Kinder – Die Kinder haben die gleiche Leidenschaft für Musik wie ihre Eltern.

Like father, like son – The children have the same passion for music as their parents.

Man sagt, wie die Eltern, so die Kinder, aber manchmal brechen Kinder auch mit den Traditionen.

They say like father, like son, but sometimes children break away from traditions.

💡

This proverb is often used to highlight generational similarities, whether in personality, habits, or values.

Synonyms

Related Phrases

Der Apfel fällt nicht weit vom Stammproverb
The apple doesn't fall far from the tree

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb reflects the German cultural emphasis on family values and the idea that upbringing plays a significant role in shaping a person's character.

📖Word Origin

This proverb is rooted in the observation of generational patterns in behavior and traits, emphasizing the influence of upbringing and genetics.

📝Usage Notes

This expression is commonly used in both positive and negative contexts to describe how children often mirror their parents' behaviors or characteristics.

Deutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch

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