B2 Family Idioms

To keep it in the family

• To maintain a secret within a group of friends.

• To keep something within the family, such as a secret or a business.

• To share everything openly with everyone.

• To avoid discussing family matters with outsiders.

Cut from the same cloth

• Two or more people who have very similar personalities or traits.

• A phrase used to describe a fabric that is identical in texture.

• A saying that refers to people who are very different from each other.

• A term used for people who are related by blood.

A close-knit family

• A family that has strong bonds, where members are always there for one another.

• A family that is geographically distant and rarely communicates.

• A family that is large and has many members.

• A family that often has conflicts and disagreements.

Born with a silver spoon in one’s mouth

• To be born into a wealthy and privileged family.

• To be born into a poor and struggling family.

• To be born with exceptional talents and skills.

• To be born in a foreign country.

To run in the family

• A characteristic or trait that is common among many family members.

• A family tradition that is passed down through generations.

• A physical resemblance that is noticeable among relatives.

• A financial inheritance that is shared among family members.

Breadwinner

• A person who spends most of the money in the household.

• The person who earns most of the money in the household.

• A person who manages the household chores.

• The person who takes care of the children.

To take after someone

• A person who resembles a family member, either in appearance or personality.

• A phrase used to describe someone who is very different from their family.

• An expression indicating a lack of resemblance to family members.

• A term used for someone who has no family connections.

A chip off the old block

• A child who is very similar to their parent in character or habits.

• A person who is completely different from their parents.

• A child who is rebellious and does not follow family traditions.

• A person who excels in a completely different field than their parents.

Flesh and blood

• A family member, often emphasizing their close relationship.

• A term for a close friend.

• A phrase used to describe someone who is very strong.

• A metaphor for a distant relative.

To follow in someone’s footsteps

• To pursue the same career or path as a family member, usually a parent.

• To ignore someone's advice and take a different route.

• To compete against someone in a race or competition.

• To take a break from one's career and travel.