student asking question

How can I understand "before me" from the phrase "like my daddy before me"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

"Before me" in this context is used to refer to one's predecessors, or the previous generation. When the singer says "like my daddy before me," we can understand this as "like my daddy from the previous generation" or "like my predecessor, my daddy." However, this expression is usually used when referring to one's past legacy or achievements, and is not used to refer to one's predecessors in casual contexts. Ex: Like the great leaders before me, I pledge to do my best to protect the country. Ex: Stacey opened up a bakery, like her mother and grandmother before her.

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