The origin of the proverb "a leopard cannot change its spots" comes from the Bible, specifically the book of Jeremiah (13:23), which states: "Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots?" The proverb serves as a reminder that people's core characteristics often remain the same, regardless of external efforts to change them. It highlights the idea that fundamental aspects of a person's identity are deeply ingrained and not easily modified.

What is the origin of the proverb "a leopard cannot change its spots" and when to use it?

a leopard cannot change its spots

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The origin of the proverb "an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet" dates back to the 16th century, with variations found in literature and common speech in various cultures. It reflects the idea that no matter how much someone may try to appear more refined or important, their true character will remain unchanged. The phrase serves as a reminder that external factors, like wealth or appearance, do not alter a person's inherent qualities or worth, and that genuine character is more significant than superficial traits.

What is the origin of the proverb "an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet" and when to use it?

an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet

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The origin of the proverb "the wolf may lose his teeth, but never his nature" is not definitively known, but it reflects a common belief found in many cultures and traditions. The proverb highlights the idea that, like the wolf, a person may undergo changes or lose certain attributes, but their essential nature will always remain. It serves as a reminder that one's true character is enduring and cannot be easily altered by external influences.

What is the origin of the proverb "the wolf may lose his teeth, but never his nature" and when to use it?

the wolf (may|might) lose his teeth, but never his nature

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The origin of the proverb "the fox may grow grey, but never good" is not clearly documented, but it aligns with similar expressions across various cultures. The proverb highlights the belief that, no matter how much time passes or how much someone matures, their fundamental traits or tendencies remain the same. It serves as a reminder that some qualities are deeply ingrained, and while age may bring wisdom or physical change, a person's core nature is often enduring.

What is the origin of the proverb "the fox may grow grey, but never good" and when to use it?

the fox (may|might) grow grey, but never good

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The origin of the proverb "born, not made" is difficult to pinpoint, but it reflects the longstanding belief that some traits, such as talent, intelligence, or character, are inherent from birth, rather than developed over time. The phrase has been used in various contexts to emphasize that natural gifts or qualities cannot always be learned, no matter how much effort is put into development. It serves as a reminder that some aspects of a person's nature are simply part of who they are, rather than something that can be shaped or taught.

What is the origin of the proverb "born, not made" and when to use it?

born, not made

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The origin of the proverb "you cannot make a silk purse out of a sow's ear" dates back to the 16th century and is attributed to various sources. It reflects the idea that certain limitations are inherent in things or people, and no amount of work or resources can transform them beyond their basic nature. The proverb serves as a reminder that while effort is important, it cannot change the fundamental qualities of something that is inherently unsuitable or inferior.

What is the origin of the proverb "you cannot make a silk purse out of a sow's ear" and when to use it?

you cannot make a silk purse out of a sow's ear

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The origin of the proverb "nature passes nurture" is often linked to philosophical discussions in the 17th and 18th centuries, notably by thinkers such as John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, though it is not tied to a single definitive source. The saying emphasizes the belief that, despite external influences, a person's inherent nature or genetics plays a dominant role in shaping who they become. It serves as a reminder that some traits, such as personality or behavior, may be more deeply ingrained than learned or influenced by environment.

What is the origin of the proverb "nature passes nurture" and when to use it?

nature passes nurture

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The origin of the proverb "a crow is never whiter for washing itself often" can be traced back to ancient sources, with variations appearing in medieval literature. The proverb emphasizes the idea that no matter how much someone tries to change their outward characteristics, their core nature will remain the same. It serves as a reminder that true change comes from within, and superficial alterations cannot alter a person's fundamental traits.

What is the origin of the proverb "a crow is never whiter for washing itself often" and when to use it?

a crow is never whiter for washing itself often

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The origin of the proverb "send a fool to market and a fool he will return" is found in early English literature, with variations appearing in works from the 16th century. The proverb reflects the idea that no amount of experience or exposure to new situations can change someone's inherent lack of wisdom or good judgment. It serves as a reminder that certain qualities, such as foolishness, are deeply ingrained and difficult to change, regardless of external influences or experiences.

What is the origin of the proverb "send a fool to market and a fool he will return" and when to use it?

send a fool to market and a fool he (will|shall) return

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The origin of the proverb "a bellowing cow soon forgets her calf" is not clearly documented, but it seems to be rooted in agricultural or folk wisdom. It reflects the idea that even strong attachments or concerns can fade when distractions or new circumstances arise. This proverb serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of emotions or priorities, and how people may easily shift their focus or forget past commitments when new interests take over.

What is the origin of the proverb "a bellowing cow soon forgets her calf" and when to use it?

a bellowing cow soon forgets her calf

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The origin of the proverb "we are born crying, live complaining, and die disappointed" is not easily traced to a specific source, but it reflects a common philosophical view about the nature of human existence. It emphasizes the notion that life is filled with struggles, dissatisfaction, and unrealized desires, suggesting that we are born into a world of discomfort and never fully escape it. This proverb serves as a reminder of the inevitability of challenges and unfulfilled aspirations, portraying a somewhat bleak perspective on the human condition.

What is the origin of the proverb "we are born crying, live complaining, and die disappointed" and when to use it?

we are born crying, live complaining, and die disappointed

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The proverb "what is bred in the bone will come out in the flesh" has its roots in early English literature, with a version of it appearing in John Heywood's 'Dialogue of Proverbs' from 1546.  It highlights the idea that no matter how much a person may try to alter their behavior or traits, their fundamental nature, shaped by their family or ancestry, will inevitably show in their actions. This proverb serves as a reminder that inherent qualities are deeply ingrained and cannot easily be erased or altered, even with conscious effort.

What is the origin of the proverb "what is bred in the bone will come out in the flesh" and when to use it?

what is bred in the bone (will|shall) come out in the flesh

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Discover how English proverbs like "nature passes nurture" and "a leopard cannot change its spots" depict natural traits and tendencies in English.

English Proverbs for "Natural Traits & Tendencies"