birds of a feather: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘birds of a feather’ mean?
The idiom "birds of a feather" means that people who have similar interests, personalities, or beliefs tend to associate with each other.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "like mother, like daughter" means that a daughter has similar qualities or behaves in a similar way to her mother.
The idiom "feathered friend" refers to a bird, usually kept as a pet or considered as a companion. It suggests that birds are loyal and trustworthy, emphasizing their presence as comforting and friendly creatures.
The idiom "bring together" refers to the act of gathering or uniting people, things, or ideas in a cohesive manner. This expression holds significant cultural implications and is used in a variety of contexts.
The idiom "breed in the bone" means that a certain characteristic or behavior is deeply ingrained or inherited from one's family or upbringing.
The idiom "branch off" means to separate or diverge from a main group or topic and pursue a different direction or subtopic.
The idiom "blood is thicker than water" means that family ties and relationships are stronger and more important than any other connections or friendships.
The idiom "blood is thicker than water" carries the meaning that familial bonds are stronger and more important than any other relationships.
The idiom *birds of a feather flock together* means that people with similar interests or characteristics tend to be drawn to each other and form groups or associations.
The idiom "birds and bees" is a metaphorical expression referring to the explanation of sexual reproduction, typically given to children. It is a euphemistic way to discuss the delicate topic and teach young individuals about the basics of human sexuality.
The idiom "bird of one's own brain" means an imaginative or creative idea that originates solely from one's own mind.
The idiom "bird of one's own brain" is a lesser-known phrase that is not commonly used in everyday language. There is limited information available about its origin, meaning, and usage. However, the phrase can be interpreted metaphorically and has been associated with creativity and inventiveness.
The idiom "bird in the bosom" means to have a close friend who turns out to be untrustworthy or betrays you in some way.
The idiom "bird in the bosom" is not commonly used in contemporary English language. It finds its roots in early English literature, particularly in works from the 16th to the 18th centuries. The phrase is often used figuratively to imply a hidden danger or a betraying presence that is close and intimate.
Deciphering Similar Alignments
The idiom "birds of a feather flock together" is often used to further illustrate the concept of "birds of a feather." This idiom emphasizes that individuals who have similar characteristics or interests tend to gravitate towards one another and form social groups. It suggests that people naturally seek out and feel more comfortable when surrounded by others who are like them. The image of a flock of birds, all of the same species, flying together reinforces the idea of unity and shared traits among individuals.
Another related idiom is "feathered friend." This phrase is used to refer to a close or trusted friend. It draws on the imagery of birds and their feathers, emphasizing the bond and connection between individuals who share a strong friendship. Just as birds with similar feathers are often seen together, individuals with a strong bond are frequently seen in each other's company.
A similar idiom that relates to the concept of "birds of a feather" is "like mother, like daughter." This idiom suggests that daughters often display similar characteristics or behaviors as their mothers. It implies that individuals inherit traits or adopt similar behaviors and interests from their family members. In this context, "birds of a feather" can be seen as extending beyond just friendships or social groups and into family dynamics and relationships.
Lastly, the phrase "and such" is sometimes used to add emphasis or include additional examples when discussing a particular topic. When considering the idiom "birds of a feather," one might say that individuals with similar interests, backgrounds, or characteristics tend to associate with one another and seek out others who are like them, "and such." This phrase reinforces the idea of the idiom and adds a sense of completeness to the statement being made.
The idiom "birds of a feather" highlights the tendency for individuals with similar interests or characteristics to associate with one another. Its origins can be traced back to an ancient Latin proverb and have been integrated into the English language for centuries. While this idiom accurately captures a common social tendency, it is important to recognize the potential limitations of exclusively surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals. Embracing diversity and engaging with people who differ from us can lead to personal growth and a broader understanding of the world. So remember, when it comes to social connections, "birds of a feather flock together," and it's always nice to have a "feathered friend" by your side. After all, "like mother, like daughter" - we often share traits and interests with our family. So, let's celebrate the diversity of the world, while acknowledging the natural inclination for individuals to seek out those who are similar. And such is the complex and fascinating nature of human connections.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "birds of a feather" can be used in a sentence:
- "John and Mary are always seen together, they're definitely birds of a feather."
- "The two countries have similar political ideologies, it's no wonder they often collaborate - birds of a feather."
- "Sarah and Emily both enjoy outdoor activities and have a love for adventure, they're birds of a feather."
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