boys will be boys
phrase
—used to indicate that it is not surprising or unusual when men or boys behave in energetic, rough, or improper ways
You shouldn't be too hard on them for staying out so late. Boys will be boys.
Cite this Entry
“Boys will be boys.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/boys%20will%20be%20boys. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.
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