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take after

to resemble a relative

In Phrasal Verbs

In more detail

to resemble a parent or older family member in appearance or personality

Examples

• She takes after her mother with that red hair and quick temper.

How to use take after

This phrasal verb is used specifically for family resemblance, typically when a younger person physically or behaviorally resembles an older relative. It emphasizes inherited or familial traits rather than deliberate imitation. The phrase is informal and conversational, commonly appearing in family discussions.

Register: informal

Common phrases

• take after one's mother
• take after one's father
• take after a parent
• takes after her brother
• doesn't take after

Synonyms

resemble · look like · take on · inherit · be similar to

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse 'take after' (resemble) with 'take on' (assume a responsibility) or 'look like' (general visual similarity without the family connection implication).

Nearby in Phrasal Verbs

step down, stick to, sum up, take on, take over, take up

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained