bɜrdz əv ə ˈfeðər flɑk təˈɡeðər
- Literally:
- Birds with similar feathers group together
What does "birds of a feather flock together" mean?
- People with similar interests or characteristics tend to associate with each other
- Like-minded individuals naturally form groups
Examples
- All the engineers hang out together—birds of a feather flock together.
- Those two troublemakers found each other quickly; birds of a feather flock together.
- The gaming enthusiasts formed their own group. Birds of a feather flock together.
Origin
Ancient proverb appearing in various cultures. In English, it was recorded in William Turner's 'Rescuing of Romish Fox' (1545). The observation that similar birds group together extends metaphorically to human behavior.
How to use it
Can be neutral observation or slightly critical, implying cliquishness. Very common proverb in English.
Similar expressions
Opposites
Related idioms
- kill two birds with one stone
To accomplish two goals with a single action
- let the cat out of the bag
To reveal a secret accidentally
- elephant in the room
An obvious problem or issue that everyone is aware of but no one wants to discuss
- don't count your chickens before they hatch
Don't assume success before it actually happens
- hold your horses
To wait and be patient
- fish out of water
Someone who feels awkward or uncomfortable in a particular situation
Use it in a practice answer
Try "birds of a feather flock together" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.