“Boys will be boys”: meaning, origin and examples
What it means
Boys will be boys is a phrase often used to dismiss or excuse behavior traditionally associated with young boys or men, implying that such behavior is natural or unavoidable.
Tone The tone of this phrase can be dismissive or resigned, as it suggests that misbehavior or stereotypical behavior is to be expected and tolerated.
Where it comes from
The phrase boys will be boys was documented as early as a 1770 letter, and similar sentiments existed in Latin literature much earlier.
Examples
- When Tom came home muddy after playing in the rain, his mom just shrugged and said, ‘Boys will be boys.’
- The teacher sighed when the boys were rowdy in class and remarked, ‘Well, boys will be boys.’
- Many people criticize the phrase ‘boys will be boys’ for excusing bad behavior without accountability.
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