Be a dead ringer for somebody

usgb
phrase

To look very similar or identical to somebody.

She was a dead ringer for my mother when she was younger.
Visual representation of "be a dead ringer for somebody" - To look very similar or identical to somebody

Often appears as...

  • she's a dead ringer for
  • he's a dead ringer for

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be a dead ringer for somebody"
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Idiomatic Expression

Used in casual speech and writing when emphasizing a strong resemblance, not suited for formal contexts.

Illustration for Idiomatic Expression
You won't believe it, but Jake is a dead ringer for Elvis Presley in his college photo.
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Not Literal

It's a figurative term; 'dead' and 'ringer' don't refer to 'deceased' or 'calling.'

Illustration for Not Literal
Stage actors often have to be a dead ringer for historical figures.
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Visual Similarity

Focuses on physical appearance, not personality or other attributes.

Illustration for Visual Similarity
At the party, I met someone who was a dead ringer for my cousin. It was uncanny!
Visual representation of the word "Be a dead ringer for somebody"

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