like father, like son

Idioms and Phrases

In the same manner from generation to generation, as in Kevin decided to run for mayor—like father, like son . This ancient proverb has been stated in English in slightly varying versions since the 1300s, sometimes appearing with a counterpart, like mother, like daughter . Thomas Draxe had it in Bibliotheca (1616): “Like father, like son; like mother, like daughter.” Also see chip off the old block ; follow in someone's footsteps .