Quick answer: “Run in the family” means to be a trait, characteristic, illness, or talent that is common among members of a family, often appearing across several generations.
Run in the family — To be a trait, characteristic, illness, or talent that is common among members of a family, often appearing across several generations.
Origin & History
The idiom likely evokes the idea of a quality “running” or flowing continuously through a family's bloodline, much like a river running through generations rather than stopping in just one.
The exact origin is not documented in detail, but the phrase has been used in this figurative sense in English since at least the 19th century, and remains common today for both physical traits and abilities.
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Context |
|---|---|
| Musical talent runs in the family — both her parents were pianists. | Talent, heredity |
| Heart disease runs in the family, so he has regular check-ups. | Health, medical history |
| A love of travel runs in the family; his grandparents visited over 50 countries. | Family tradition |
| Red hair runs in the family on my mother's side. | Physical trait |
| Good humour clearly runs in the family — they're all so funny. | Personality trait |
How to Use It
This idiom is generally used to describe the situation directly, often following a form of the verb "to be" or paired with a verb of change such as "go" or "get." It works well in both spoken and written English, and is most effective when it clearly refers to a real, specific situation rather than being used vaguely.
Common Mistakes
Mistakes to Avoid
It run in the family.
It runs in the family. — the third-person singular needs 'runs'.
This talent runs on the family.
This talent runs in the family. — the preposition is 'in', not 'on'.
Diabetes runs in her family history.
Diabetes runs in her family. — there is no need to add 'history'.
Similar Idioms
Practise This Idiom
Practice English Idioms
Use these exercises to master idioms in context:
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Quick Check: Run in the family
2 questions — test what you just learned.
1. What does “Run in the family” mean?
2. Complete the sentence: “Musical talent _____ — both her parents were pianists.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Run in the family” mean?
“Run in the family” means To be a trait, characteristic, illness, or talent that is common among members of a family, often appearing across several generations.
Where does the idiom “Run in the family” come from?
The idiom likely evokes the idea of a quality “running” or flowing continuously through a family's bloodline, much like a river running through generations rather than stopping in just one.
Can you give an example of “Run in the family” in a sentence?
Here is an example: “Musical talent runs in the family — both her parents were pianists.” — used in the context of talent, heredity.
Is “Run in the family” formal or informal?
This idiom is neutral. It is common in everyday speech, journalism, and semi-formal writing, though it is generally avoided in strict formal or academic writing.
What CEFR level is “Run in the family”?
This idiom is typically taught at B1 level. It is an intermediate expression that appears frequently in spoken English, everyday conversation, and informal writing.
What are common mistakes with “Run in the family”?
A common mistake is: It run in the family. The correct form is: It runs in the family. (the third-person singular needs 'runs')
What idioms are similar to “Run in the family”?
Similar idioms include: In the blood, A chip off the old block, Like father, like son, Bred in the bone. These share a related meaning or usage context.
How do I practise idioms like “Run in the family”?
Use LexFizz's Flash Cards and Flip Tiles exercises. Try writing your own example sentences using the idiom in context, and listen for it in films, podcasts, and everyday conversation.
Can “Run in the family” be used in writing?
Yes. It works well in informal writing, emails, and journalism. In everyday and semi-formal writing it is a natural and clear choice.
Does “Run in the family” have the same meaning in British and American English?
Yes, “Run in the family” is understood in both British and American English with the same meaning: To be a trait, characteristic, illness, or talent that is common among members of a family, often appearing across several generations. The idiom is widely recognised across all major varieties of English.