Brothers are often seen as companions and partners in both good times and bad. They share childhood memories, support each other, and sometimes, even argue. As they grow older, they often find their bond strengthening. In language, we also use idioms to describe the special relationship between brothers. These phrases capture the love, rivalry, and unique moments siblings experience.
In this article, we will explore common idioms about brothers. These expressions can help you understand how language reflects the important role brothers play in our lives. Whether it’s about teamwork, friendship, or playful teasing, idioms about brothers add depth to how we talk about sibling bonds. Let’s dive into some of these phrases and discover what they really mean.
Idioms About Brothers
1. Like two peas in a pod
Meaning: Brothers who are very close and similar to each other.
Example Sentence:
- Mark and John are like two peas in a pod. They love playing video games together.
- My brother and I are like two peas in a pod; we finish each other’s sentences.
Other ways to say: Like twins, Best friends
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom comes from the idea that peas in a pod are almost the same and can’t be told apart.
Usage: Used to describe siblings who are very similar or always together.
2. Brothers from another mother
Meaning: Close friends who are as close as brothers.
Example Sentence:
- Even though they aren’t related, Sam and Mike are brothers from another mother.
- David and I are brothers from another mother; we always have each other’s backs.
Other ways to say: Like brothers, Best friends forever
Fun Fact/Origin: This phrase started as a fun way to say two people are as close as siblings, even if they aren’t actually brothers.
Usage: Used for friends who have a brother-like relationship.
3. Thick as thieves
Meaning: Very close, often sharing secrets or plans.
Example Sentence:
- My brother and I are thick as thieves. We never keep secrets from each other.
- Those two are thick as thieves. They always have each other’s back.
Other ways to say: Close as family, Partners in crime
Fun Fact/Origin: The phrase comes from the idea that thieves have to trust each other completely.
Usage: Used to describe siblings who are very close and always together.
4. A shoulder to lean on
Meaning: Someone who offers support, especially in tough times.
Example Sentence:
- My older brother is always a shoulder to lean on when I need advice.
- Whenever I’m feeling down, I know I can count on my brother as a shoulder to lean on.
Other ways to say: Supportive, Always there
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom comes from the idea of physically leaning on someone for comfort and strength.
Usage: Used when talking about a sibling who is supportive and dependable.
5. Blood is thicker than water
Meaning: Family relationships are stronger than other relationships.
Example Sentence:
- Even though I fight with my brother sometimes, I know blood is thicker than water.
- You can’t choose your family, but blood is thicker than water, so you have to stick together.
Other ways to say: Family first, Family ties
Fun Fact/Origin: This saying dates back to the 12th century and has been used to emphasize the importance of family.
Usage: Used to explain that family bonds are usually stronger than friendships.
6. A chip off the old block
Meaning: A child who is very similar to one of their parents, often the father.
Example Sentence:
- Jack is a chip off the old block; he’s just like his dad in the way he works.
- My brother is a chip off the old block—he’s just as good at fixing things as our dad.
Other ways to say: Like father, like son, Like mother, like daughter
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom dates back to the 17th century and refers to the idea that children resemble their parents in more ways than one.
Usage: Used to describe children who are similar to their parents in appearance or behavior.
7. Two of a kind
Meaning: Two people who are very similar, especially in habits or personality.
Example Sentence:
- My brother and I are two of a kind; we both love playing basketball.
- Tim and his twin are two of a kind—they like all the same things.
Other ways to say: Like peas in a pod, Partners in crime
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom comes from the idea that two objects that are alike belong together, just like a pair of things.
Usage: Used to describe people who are very similar in personality or habits.
8. Hand in hand
Meaning: To work together in a close, supportive way.
Example Sentence:
- My brother and I have always worked hand in hand on family projects.
- They handle the chores hand in hand, each doing their part.
Other ways to say: Side by side, Together
Fun Fact/Origin: The phrase comes from the idea that two people walking together with their hands held closely means they’re working in harmony.
Usage: Used to describe people who collaborate or work closely together.
9. Cut from the same cloth
Meaning: Two people who are very similar in character or behavior.
Example Sentence:
- John and his brother are cut from the same cloth—they both love soccer.
- My twin sisters are cut from the same cloth; they both enjoy reading mystery novels.
Other ways to say: Like two peas in a pod, Birds of a feather
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom comes from the idea of two pieces of fabric made from the same material, meaning they are alike in every way.
Usage: Used to describe siblings who are very similar.
10. Apple doesn’t fall far from the tree
Meaning: Children often resemble their parents in personality or behavior.
Example Sentence:
- Sam is just like his dad—he’s the kind of guy who always tells jokes. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
- Emily loves reading just like her mom; the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Other ways to say: Like father, like son, Like mother, like daughter
Fun Fact/Origin: This saying goes back to the 17th century and emphasizes how children inherit traits from their parents.
Usage: Used when children act like their parents, especially in personality or habits.
11. Close-knit
Meaning: A group of people, such as a family, who have strong bonds and support each other.
Example Sentence:
- We are a close-knit family, always there for each other no matter what.
- My brothers and I are so close-knit that we share everything.
Other ways to say: Tight family, Close circle
Fun Fact/Origin: The term comes from knitting, where threads are tightly woven together, symbolizing strong connections.
Usage: Used to describe families or groups who are very close and supportive.
12. Stick together
Meaning: To stay united and support each other, especially in tough situations.
Example Sentence:
- No matter what happens, my brother and I will always stick together.
- Even during difficult times, they stuck together and got through it.
Other ways to say: Stand by, Stay united
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom suggests sticking to each other like glue to ensure support.
Usage: Used to describe people or siblings who remain loyal and supportive.
13. Brothers in arms
Meaning: People who support each other, especially in hard times.
Example Sentence:
- My best friend and I are brothers in arms; we’ve been through a lot together.
- The soldiers were brothers in arms, facing challenges together on the battlefield.
Other ways to say: Loyal friends, Comrades
Fun Fact/Origin: Originally used for soldiers who fought together, this phrase now means any close, supportive relationship.
Usage: Used for people who are very close and help each other out, especially in tough times.
14. Hand me down
Meaning: Something given from one sibling to another, often clothes or toys.
Example Sentence:
- My brother gave me his hand-me-down bike when he got a new one.
- I love wearing my older brother’s hand-me-down shirts.
Other ways to say: Passed down, Given to
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom comes from the idea of something being passed from one person to another, often within a family.
Usage: Used when one sibling passes something to another.
15. Family ties
Meaning: The relationships and connections between family members.
Example Sentence:
- No matter where we go, the family ties always bring us back together.
- Strong family ties keep us connected even when we live far apart.
Other ways to say: Family bonds, Family connections
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom refers to the strong and often unbreakable connections between family members.
Usage: Used to emphasize the importance of family relationships.
16. A family affair
Meaning: Something involving the entire family.
Example Sentence:
- The family reunion was a real family affair with everyone helping out.
- The birthday party turned into a family affair with cousins, uncles, and grandparents joining in.
Other ways to say: Family event, Family gathering
Fun Fact/Origin: This phrase reflects activities or events where family members are deeply involved.
Usage: Used to describe any event or activity that includes all family members.
17. Get along like a house on fire
Meaning: To get along very well with someone.
Example Sentence:
- My brother and I get along like a house on fire; we always have fun together.
- Tim and his new stepbrother got along like a house on fire from day one.
Other ways to say: Hit it off, Like best friends
Fun Fact/Origin: This phrase refers to the rapid and strong way a fire can spread, suggesting that relationships can form quickly and strongly.
Usage: Used when two people or siblings immediately become close friends.
18. The apple of one’s eye
Meaning: A person who is cherished or loved very much.
Example Sentence:
- My younger brother is the apple of our parents’ eye.
- Lucy is the apple of her big brother’s eye; he always looks out for her.
Other ways to say: Favorite, Cherished one
Fun Fact/Origin: The phrase comes from the old belief that the “apple” is the center of the eye, symbolizing something most precious.
Usage: Used to describe someone who is dearly loved or favored in a family.
19. Like chalk and cheese
Meaning: Two people who are very different from each other.
Example Sentence:
- My brother and I are like chalk and cheese; we have totally different interests.
- Tim and his brother are like chalk and cheese; Tim loves soccer, and his brother loves art.
Other ways to say: Worlds apart, Polar opposites
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom compares two items that are completely different—chalk and cheese—to show how far apart they are in nature.
Usage: Used to describe two siblings with very different personalities.
20. Born with a silver spoon in one’s mouth
Meaning: Born into a wealthy or privileged family.
Example Sentence:
- James was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, always getting everything he wanted.
- Though my brother had a silver spoon in his mouth, he’s always been humble.
Other ways to say: Privileged, Born into luxury
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom comes from the tradition of wealthy families giving their children silver spoons.
Usage: Used to describe someone born into wealth or privilege.
21. At each other’s throats
Meaning: To argue or fight with each other.
Example Sentence:
- My brother and I were at each other’s throats over the TV remote.
- They were at each other’s throats for hours, but they made up in the end.
Other ways to say: Fighting, Bickering
Fun Fact/Origin: The phrase comes from the idea of two people fighting so intensely that they might hurt each other.
Usage: Used when siblings are arguing or fighting over something.
22. Like night and day
Meaning: Two people who are very different from each other.
Example Sentence:
- My two brothers are like night and day—one loves sports, and the other is into video games.
- We’re like night and day when it comes to our hobbies, but we still get along.
Other ways to say: Worlds apart, Polar opposites
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom compares two things that are very different, like the contrasting times of day—night and day.
Usage: Used to show how different two people or things are.
23. Put one’s foot down
Meaning: To strongly insist on something or set a firm rule.
Example Sentence:
- My dad put his foot down and said we couldn’t stay out past 9 PM.
- When it came to our chores, mom put her foot down and made sure we finished them.
Other ways to say: Stand firm, Set a boundary
Fun Fact/Origin: The phrase comes from the idea of firmly planting your foot on the ground to show strength and determination.
Usage: Used when someone makes a firm decision or rule.
24. Take after
Meaning: To resemble or have similar qualities to a parent or family member.
Example Sentence:
- My little sister takes after our mom—she loves cooking just like her.
- John takes after our dad when it comes to fixing things around the house.
Other ways to say: Resemble, Be like
Fun Fact/Origin: The phrase comes from the idea that children “take after” their parents by inheriting their traits.
Usage: Used when someone is like a parent or relative in appearance or behavior.
25. Family first
Meaning: Prioritizing family over everything else.
Example Sentence:
- No matter what, we always put family first during holidays and special events.
- When we face challenges, our family sticks together because family first.
Other ways to say: Family comes first, Prioritize family
Fun Fact/Origin: This phrase highlights the importance of family in one’s life.
Usage: Used to emphasize that family is the most important thing.
26. Little brother/big brother
Meaning: A term used to describe a younger or older sibling.
Example Sentence:
- My little brother loves playing with his toys all day long.
- My big brother always helps me with my homework.
Other ways to say: Younger brother, Older brother
Fun Fact/Origin: These simple terms are commonly used to describe the relationship between siblings of different ages.
Usage: Used to describe siblings based on age.
27. Sibling rivalry
Meaning: Competition or fighting between siblings.
Example Sentence:
- There’s always some sibling rivalry between me and my sister when we play games.
- Sibling rivalry can get intense when both brothers want the last piece of cake!
Other ways to say: Sibling competition, Brotherly rivalry
Fun Fact/Origin: This term comes from the natural competition and differences that occur between siblings as they grow up.
Usage: Used to describe competition or fights between siblings.
28. Two heads are better than one
Meaning: It’s better to work together than alone.
Example Sentence:
- My brother and I worked on the school project together—two heads are better than one!
- When solving problems, we always remember that two heads are better than one.
Other ways to say: Teamwork, Better together
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom suggests that when two people work together, they can come up with better solutions than if they work alone.
Usage: Used to encourage teamwork and collaboration.
29. Blood is thicker than water
Meaning: Family bonds are stronger than other relationships.
Example Sentence:
- My brother and I argue sometimes, but blood is thicker than water, and we always make up.
- Even if we don’t agree, we stick together because blood is thicker than water.
Other ways to say: Family first, Family comes first
Fun Fact/Origin: This saying dates back to medieval times and has been used to emphasize the importance of family relationships.
Usage: Used when emphasizing the strength of family bonds over other relationships.
30. A little bird told me
Meaning: Used when you don’t want to reveal who gave you information.
Example Sentence:
- A little bird told me you were planning a surprise for our mom’s birthday!
- My brother’s always in the know—he’s the one who whispered, “A little bird told me!”
Other ways to say: Heard it from someone, Someone told me
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom comes from the idea that birds can pass messages or secrets without being noticed.
Usage: Used when sharing information you don’t want to say where it came from.
31. Get the hang of
Meaning: To learn how to do something after some practice.
Example Sentence:
- It took me a while, but I finally got the hang of riding my brother’s skateboard.
- After a few tries, my little brother got the hang of tying his shoes.
Other ways to say: Master, Learn
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom suggests that once you’ve “hung” onto something, you understand it well.
Usage: Used when someone has learned how to do something after practice.
32. Not on speaking terms
Meaning: Not talking to someone due to a disagreement.
Example Sentence:
- After our argument, my brother and I were not on speaking terms for a week.
- They were not on speaking terms, but eventually, they made up and were friends again.
Other ways to say: Not talking, No communication
Fun Fact/Origin: This phrase comes from the idea that people who aren’t speaking to each other are avoiding communication.
Usage: Used to describe a situation where people are not talking due to a conflict.
33. On the same page
Meaning: To agree or understand something in the same way.
Example Sentence:
- Before starting the project, my brother and I made sure we were on the same page.
- We were on the same page about what to get mom for her birthday.
Other ways to say: In agreement, Understanding
Fun Fact/Origin: This idiom comes from the idea of people reading the same book and being in sync with the story.
Usage: Used when people share the same thoughts or understanding about something.
Quiz: Idioms About Brothers
Instructions: Read each question and the answer choices carefully. Pick the letter that best matches the meaning of the phrase or expression.
Question Key
1. What does the idiom “at each other’s throats” mean?
A) Brothers are helping each other out.
B) Brothers are arguing or fighting.
C) Brothers are working together on a project.
2. If two brothers are “like night and day,” what does that mean?
A) They are always together.
B) They have very different personalities.
C) They both love the same things.
3. What does “put one’s foot down” mean?
A) To start a new activity.
B) To stop something from happening.
C) To be quiet and not speak up.
4. When someone says, “my brother takes after our dad,” what does it mean?
A) They both enjoy the same hobbies.
B) They look like or act like their dad.
C) They are always arguing.
5. What does the phrase “family first” mean?
A) Spending time with friends is more important than family.
B) Family should always be the top priority.
C) Only parents should be cared for in the family.
6. What does the idiom “two heads are better than one” mean?
A) It’s better to work alone.
B) Working with someone is better than doing things alone.
C) Two people can never agree.
7. If someone says, “blood is thicker than water,” what are they saying?
A) Friends are more important than family.
B) Family bonds are stronger than other relationships.
C) Water is thicker than blood.
8. What does “not on speaking terms” mean?
A) Brothers are talking too much.
B) Brothers are angry and not talking to each other.
C) Brothers are spending time together.
9. What does “get the hang of” mean?
A) To understand or learn how to do something.
B) To stop doing something.
C) To give up on something.
10. If someone says, “we’re on the same page,” what do they mean?
A) They disagree with each other.
B) They are not talking to each other.
C) They agree and understand each other.
Answer Key
- B – Brothers are arguing or fighting.
- B – They have very different personalities.
- B – To stop something from happening.
- B – They look like or act like their dad.
- B – Family should always be the top priority.
- B – Working with someone is better than doing things alone.
- B – Family bonds are stronger than other relationships.
- B – Brothers are angry and not talking to each other.
- A – To understand or learn how to do something.
- C – They agree and understand each other.
Wrapping Up
We’ve learned a lot about idioms related to brothers. These expressions show the special bond and sometimes the challenges that come with being siblings. Understanding these phrases can help you communicate better and recognize how language reflects family relationships.
By now, you should be familiar with idioms like “at each other’s throats,” “family first,” and “blood is thicker than water.” These sayings help describe how brothers interact, whether they’re arguing, working together, or supporting each other. The next time you talk about your siblings, you might spot these idioms in your conversations.
Keep practicing, and soon you’ll use these idioms without even thinking about it!
