As the old cock crows so crows the young.

Meaning: Children naturally imitate their parents' behavior, words, and habits rather than following external instruction.

Origin: Recorded in A Dictionary of English Proverbs and Proverbial Phrases, an undated collection published in London by Whittaker & Co. around 1880 and credited to Thomas Preston. Its earlier history hasn't been traced.

More proverbs about Wisdom

From our compliments & insults

  • Eres un aguafiestas — You're a killjoy — you pour cold water on everyone's fun the moment you arrive.
  • ¡Qué cara más dura! — You've got incredible nerve and cheek — the audacity is almost impressive.
  • Es un/una pesado/a — A dreadful bore — their company feels like carrying extra weight.

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