wie der Vater, so der Sohn

/viː dɛɐ̯ ˈfaːtɐ zoː dɛɐ̯ ˈzoːn/
proverb★Intermediate— children often resemble their parents in behavior or character◆proverb
◆ What It Really Means
Children often inherit or develop similar traits, behaviors, or characteristics as their parents, especially in terms of personality, habits, or skills.
Literal Meaning
As the father, so the son
Literal Breakdown
wieas+der Vaterthe father+soso+der Sohnthe son
◇ Mental Image
The proverb evokes the image of a son mirroring his father's actions, mannerisms, or personality traits, suggesting a direct lineage of behavior.
◈ When to Use
A parent might use this proverb when noticing their child exhibiting a behavior or skill that they themselves possess, highlighting the familial connection.
◉ Cultural Note
This proverb is widely recognized in German-speaking cultures and is often used to explain or comment on the similarities between parents and their children.
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.

Synonyms

Related Phrases

Äpfel fallen nicht weit vom Stammproverb
Apples don'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 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