proverb · Words worth keeping
As the old cock crows so crows the young.
As the old cock crows so crows the young.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
People may copy the habits and manner of those they observe. Those setting an example should consider what their conduct invites others to repeat.
Example
New volunteers begin interrupting readers after seeing the coordinator do so; the coordinator changes the meeting practice and models waiting for a speaker to finish.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The young cock’s crow follows the old cock’s in the image. Applied to people, the saying describes behaviour learned by observing someone established in a group or household. A newcomer may imitate how an experienced member greets visitors, handles mistakes or speaks about others. The influence is not necessarily intentional, which makes the example worth noticing even when no instruction is given. It is not a claim that every younger person inevitably copies an older one or lacks independent judgement. Look at the particular conduct being modelled and provide a better example where the pattern needs changing.
When to use it
Use it when a repeated group habit appears to follow the example of an established member.
Keep in mind
Examples influence without determining conduct; age alone does not make someone a model or a passive imitator.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English