It takes one to know one Meaning in English

expression

US

IT TAYKS WUN TUH-NOH WUN

UK

IT TAYKS WON TOO-NOH WON

Definition

This expression is used to say that someone is able to recognize a trait in another person because they have the same trait themselves, often in a negative or teasing way.

Usage & Nuances

Informal, often used playfully or as a witty comeback when accused of something. Usually refers to negative traits (like lying or being sneaky). Not literal; don't use in formal writing. Similar to 'pot calling the kettle black,' but focuses on recognizing shared traits.

• Spanish: solo un igual reconoce a otro - para saberlo hay que serlo
• Portuguese (BR): só um entende o outro - só um reconhece o outro
• Portuguese (PT): só um reconhece o outro - só um entende o outro
• Chinese (Simplified): 彼此彼此 - 识货的才识货
• Chinese (Traditional): 彼此彼此 - 只有內行才看得出來
• Hindi: चोर-चोर मौसेरे भाई - जैसा को वैसा ही पहचाने
• Arabic: كل إناء بما فيه ينضح - لا يعرف اللص إلا اللص
• Bengali: চোর চোরকেই চেনে - যেমন কর, তেমনই বর
• Russian: сам такой - кто бы говорил
• Japanese: 同じ穴のムジナ - 自分のことは自分が一番わかる
• Vietnamese: ngưu tầm ngưu, mã tầm mã - người như thế mới nhận ra người như thế
• Korean: 끼리끼리 알아본다 - 네가 그러니까 알지
• Turkish: çalıyı çalı tanır - birini en iyi aynısı anlar
• Urdu: جیسے کو تیسا - چور چور کو ہی پہچانتا ہے
• Indonesian: sama-sama saja - siapa yang bilang

Example Sentences

You say I'm messy? It takes one to know one.

basic

He's calling you stubborn? It takes one to know one!

basic

She called me a liar, but it takes one to know one.

basic

Oh, you're accusing me of cheating? It takes one to know one!

natural

Whenever my brother calls me lazy, I just say, 'It takes one to know one.'

natural

'You act like a know-it-all.' 'Well, it takes one to know one.'

natural