• Listen

  What it means

  Literally “what kind of mother, such a daughter,” this proverb asserts that daughters tend to resemble their mothers in character, habits, or behavior. The resemblance may be positive or negative depending on context. For example: “Obie są uparte — jaka matka, taka córka” — “They’re both stubborn — like mother, like daughter.” It is most often used when a daughter displays a trait — good or bad — that is clearly inherited from her mother.

  English equivalent

  Like mother, like daughter.

  Vocabulary

  • jaka — what kind of (feminine correlative adjective, nominative)
  • matka — mother (feminine noun)
  • taka — such, like that (feminine correlative adjective, nominative)
  • córka — daughter (feminine noun)

  Grammar note

  The proverb uses the 'jaki...taki' correlative construction: 'of what kind X, such is Y.' Both 'jaka' and 'taka' are feminine nominative forms agreeing with their respective nouns 'matka' and 'córka.' The verb 'jest' (is) is omitted in the clipped proverb style, as is common in Polish sayings.

  Cultural context

  This is one of the best-known Polish proverbs and is recognized across all age groups and regions. It can be used affectionately ('she has her mother's warmth') or critically ('she has her mother's sharp tongue'). The tone is entirely determined by context. The English direct equivalent is 'like mother, like daughter.'

  Beginner

Noticed a typo, a wrong translation, or anything that doesn't look right? We'd love to fix it — just let us know via the contact page. Thank you!