family likeness

family likeness

A mother and daughter share a clear family likeness.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • Resemblance among family members: "family likeness" refers to a physical or behavioral similarity shared by individuals who are related by blood or marriage, often observed in appearance, mannerisms, or traits.
    • A vague similarity: It can also denote a general or superficial resemblance that suggests a familial connection, even if not exact.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • There is a strong family likeness between the two cousins, especially in their facial features. (A clear physical resemblance due to shared ancestry.)
    • The family likeness in their laughter was unmistakable during the reunion. (A behavioral trait common among relatives.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to bear a family likeness": to show a resemblance to one's relatives.

    • The youngest daughter bears a striking family likeness to her grandmother. (She looks very much like her grandmother.)

  • "a faint family likeness": a slight or subtle resemblance.

    • Although they are distant cousins, there is only a faint family likeness between them. (The similarity is minimal but noticeable.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Likeness (n): the state or quality of being similar; resemblance.

    • The portrait captured a perfect likeness of the subject. (The painting was an exact representation.)

  • Family (n): a group of related individuals, typically living together or sharing ancestry.

    • The family gathered for a holiday dinner. (The group of relatives.)
Synonyms
  • Resemblance: similarity in appearance or nature.
  • Semblance: an outward or superficial appearance of something.
  • Affinity: a natural liking or similarity between people or things.
Related Idioms

  • Like father, like son: a proverb meaning that children often resemble their parents in behavior or appearance.

    • He has the same stubbornness as his father — like father, like son. (A clear family likeness in personality.)

  • A chip off the old block: a person who closely resembles a parent in character or behavior.

    • She is a chip off the old block, with her mother's artistic talent. (A strong family likeness in skill.)