Take After – Meaning and Examples
Family traits often pass from parents to children, whether in looks, personality, or talents. In English, we say children take after their parents or relatives when they share these characteristics. This common idiom helps describe family similarities in daily conversation.
What Does “Take After” Mean?
“Take after” means to resemble or be similar to an older family member in appearance, character, or behavior. Think of it like a younger version of a parent—they might have the same smile, similar habits, or shared talents. It describes inherited or learned family traits.
When to Use It
Use this idiom when noticing physical similarities between family members. Use it when children have similar personalities or talents as their parents. Use it when discussing inherited traits or learned behaviors in families. It is a neutral, often positive phrase for family conversations.
Example Sentences
- Sarah really takes after her mother—they have the same sense of humor.
- He takes after his father in his love for music.
- All the children take after their tall grandfather.
- She doesn’t take after either parent in her artistic ability.
Mini Dialogue
Grandmother: “Look at little Emma organizing her toys so neatly!”
Mother: “She definitely takes after you with her love for organization.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, this idiom is specifically for family resemblance. Don’t use it for general similarities between unrelated people.
❌ Don’t say: “My friend takes after that famous actor.” (Use “resembles” or “looks like” instead).
✅ Do say: “My son takes after my husband with his curly hair.”
Practice Tip
Look at family photos or think about your relatives. Identify one trait you share with a family member and create a sentence like “I take after my [family member] in [trait].” For example, “I take after my mother in my love for reading.”
Final Note
You now know how to use “take after” to describe family resemblances in appearance, personality, and talents. This warm and descriptive phrase will help you talk about family connections and inherited traits. Use it to celebrate the special similarities that connect family members across generations!