like mother

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like mother" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a similarity or resemblance between a child and their mother, often in terms of behavior or characteristics. Example: "She has a strong will and determination, just like mother."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

They called my Mother "marcie" which means "like mother".

Huffington Post

"Because it sounds like mother is always right, which she isn't".

Huffington Post

Lori: Do you think it's a "like mother, like daughter" thing"?

Huffington Post

Like mother, like daughters.

The New York Times

Like mother like daughter.

The New York Times

Like mother, like child.

The New York Times

It's like Mother making dinner.

The New Yorker

Like mother, like daughter".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Very English-governess-like, Mother said.

The New Yorker

What rescues "Precious" is the performance of Mo'Nique as Mary, the heroine's Medusa-like mother.

The New Yorker

Ismet is loved, particularly by his tragic, Cassandra-like mother, who watches television, smokes and knows war is coming.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "like mother, like daughter/son", ensure the context clearly demonstrates the parallel traits or behaviors being highlighted.

Common error

Avoid using "like mother" when the similarity is superficial or lacks a meaningful connection; ensure the comparison is relevant and insightful to avoid a weak or confusing statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like mother" typically functions as part of a comparative idiom, often followed by "like daughter" or "like son". Its grammatical role is to draw a parallel between the characteristics or behaviors of a mother and her offspring, as exemplified in Ludwig. This expression is considered correct, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like mother" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to draw parallels between a mother and her child, predominantly in News & Media. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It serves to highlight shared traits or behaviors, often implying inheritance or influence. While versatile, the phrase's appropriateness hinges on the context and relationship dynamics, ensuring the comparison is meaningful. Alternatives such as "resembling the mother" or "taking after her mother" offer similar meanings with subtle variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taking after her mother

A common way of saying someone resembles their mother.

similar to the mother

Highlights similarity in traits or characteristics.

resembling the mother

Directly states the act of resembling the mother figure.

mirroring her mother

Emphasizes a direct reflection of the mother's actions or qualities.

bearing a resemblance to the mother

Formal way to express the similarity in appearance or character.

in the style of her mother

Focuses on imitating or mirroring the mother's style.

reflecting the maternal influence

Highlights the impact of the mother's influence on behavior or attributes.

following in mother's footsteps

Implies a continuation of the mother's path or legacy.

inheriting traits from mother

Focuses on the inheritance of characteristics.

a chip off the old block

An idiomatic expression indicating a strong resemblance to a parent, often the father, but adaptable to the mother.

FAQs

How can I use "like mother, like daughter" in a sentence?

You can use "like mother, like daughter" to indicate that a daughter shares similar characteristics or behaviors with her mother. For example, "She's always been ambitious, "like mother, like daughter"."

What does the expression "like mother, like daughter" mean?

The expression "like mother, like daughter" means that daughters tend to resemble their mothers in personality, behavior, or appearance. It suggests a hereditary connection or learned behavior. It can also be used sarcastically.

Are there any alternatives to the phrase "like mother, like daughter"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "the apple doesn't fall far from the tree" or simply say they share similar traits or characteristics. The best option depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to always use the phrase "like mother, like daughter"?

While the phrase is common, it's important to consider the context and the relationship between the mother and daughter. Using it sarcastically or in a negative context may be inappropriate if the intention is to be respectful. Consider the connotations before using this phrase in sensitive situations.