der Apfel fällt nicht weit vom Stamm

/deːɐ̯ ˈap͡fl̩ fɛlt nɪçt vaɪ̯t fɔm ˈʃtam/proverb
children resemble their parents

Sie ist sehr musikalisch, der Apfel fällt nicht weit vom Stamm.

She is very musical; the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.


What It Really Means
Children tend to inherit the traits, behaviors, or characteristics of their parents, often used to explain similarities between generations.
Literal Meaning
An apple does not fall far from the tree it grew on.
Literal Breakdown
der Apfelthe apple+fälltfalls+nicht weitnot far+vom Stammfrom the trunk
Mental Image
The image of an apple falling near the tree it grew on, symbolizing the close resemblance between children and their parents.
When to Use
A parent might say this when noticing their child has a similar talent or habit as they do, such as musical ability or a love for reading.
Cultural Note
This proverb is a common way to acknowledge the influence of parents on their children's development and behavior in German-speaking cultures.
informal

A proverb meaning that children tend to inherit the traits, behaviors, or characteristics of their parents, often used to explain similarities between generations.

Er ist genauso ehrgeizig wie sein Vater, der Apfel fällt nicht weit vom Stamm.

He is just as ambitious as his father; the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

Sie hat die gleiche Leidenschaft für Kunst wie ihre Mutter, der Apfel fällt nicht weit vom Stamm.

She has the same passion for art as her mother; the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

This proverb is often used to highlight inherited qualities, whether positive or negative, and can be applied to both personal traits and skills.

Related Phrases

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

This proverb is widely recognized in German-speaking cultures and is often used in everyday conversations to explain family resemblances.

Word Origin

The proverb originates from the observation that apples typically fall near the tree they grow on, symbolizing the close resemblance between children and their parents.

Usage Notes

This proverb is commonly used in both positive and neutral contexts to describe inherited traits. It can also be used humorously or critically, depending on the situation.

Deutsch-Englisch Wörterbuch