the black sheep of the family

The phrase the black sheep of the family is often used in English, but what does this idiom mean? When idioms are used in the right situations, they strengthen communication and enrich the language. You can communicate more effectively by learning the meaning of the black sheep of the family.

Meaning of "the black sheep of the family"

Meaning

The phrase 'the black sheep of the family' is an idiom which is used to refer to a person who is regarded as a disgrace to their family or community. It is a person who is seen as different from their relatives and who does not fit in socially or morally. They may be seen as an outcast or rebel, or they may just not conform to the norms that the rest of the family follows.

Etymology

The phrase 'black sheep of the family' has its origins in farming. Farmers used to segregate their flock of sheep into white and black breeds. The black sheep were regarded as being worth less than their white counterparts, and were seen as being unusable for breeding. As such, there was a sense of worthlessness associated with the black sheep, and this term eventually transferred to humans who were seen as being a disgrace to their families.

Usage

This phrase is used in a variety of contexts, from humorous to serious. It is often used to describe someone who does not fit in with the rest of their family, such as a rebellious child or an adult who does not subscribe to the same values as their parents. Some people also use it to refer to themselves if they feel that they don't fit in with their family or group.

Example Sentences

• His parents are very well-respected in the community, but John is the black sheep of the family and has caused them a lot of embarrassment.
• Charlie doesn't fit in with his siblings, he's always been the black sheep of the family.
• I feel like the black sheep of my group of friends, they all have similar interests and I'm the only one who doesn't.
• She was always the black sheep of the family, not wanting to follow the same path as everybody else.

Idioms with similar meanings in different languages

"Barking up the wrong tree" is an English idiom that means to pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action. In German, the similar idiom is "Auf dem Holzweg sein," which translates to "To be on the wrong track." This idiom emphasizes the idea that when you are pursuing the wrong course of action, you are not going to achieve your desired outcome.