Understanding idioms is one of the fastest ways to sound more natural in English, and family-related idioms are among the most common in everyday conversation. These five expressions go beyond their literal meanings, so knowing them will help you connect with native speakers and boost your listening comprehension.
What does "to run in the family" mean?
When something runs in the family, it means that family members share similar qualities or traits [0:28]. It has nothing to do with actual running. The quality could be physical, like appearance, or personality-based, like humor.
- A sense of humor runs in my family.
- Red hair runs in my family.
This idiom works for talents, habits, health conditions, or any characteristic that appears across generations.
How do you use "get along" and "spitting image of"?
What does "get along" really mean?
Get along means to have a great relationship with someone [1:04]. Despite being only two small words, the meaning is quite broad. You can use it to describe any positive, friendly connection.
- My sisters and I get along great.
Notice the structure: subject + get along + (with someone). You can also say "we get along well" or "they don't get along" to describe a difficult relationship.
When should you say "spitting image of"?
If someone is the spitting image of another family member, that person looks exactly like them [1:28]. The word spitting here has nothing to do with the actual action. Think of it as a way to say two people could almost be twins.
- My brother is the spitting image of my dad.
This expression is always used with of and typically refers to a strong physical resemblance between relatives.
What is the difference between "take after" and "black sheep of the family"?
How is "to take after someone" used?
To take after someone means to behave like another person [1:55]. While spitting image focuses on looks, take after focuses on behavior and actions.
- My little brother takes after my sister. What she does, he does.
The structure is simple: subject + takes after + person. It highlights habits, attitudes, or personality traits rather than physical appearance.
Who is the "black sheep of the family"?
The black sheep of the family is the least successful or least admired member of a family [2:17]. No actual sheep are involved. This idiom carries a slightly negative tone, so use it carefully.
- Don't be the black sheep of the family.
It often describes someone who is seen as different, rebellious, or less accomplished compared to other relatives.
How can you practice these idioms?
Here is a quick reference to reinforce what you learned:
- Run in the family: shared qualities among relatives.
- Get along: have a great relationship.
- Spitting image of: look exactly like someone.
- Take after someone: behave like another person.
- Black sheep of the family: least admired family member.
A great way to memorize idioms is to create your own sentences. Try writing one example for each expression and leave it in the comments. Does red hair run in your family? Are you the spitting image of a parent? Who do you take after? Practicing with real, personal examples makes these phrases stick.
