Natural Traits & Tendencies

used to imply that a person's fundamental nature or character is difficult and unlikely to change, even if they try

He promised to stop lying, but I am skeptical because a leopard cannot change its spots.

used to imply that a person's true nature or identity cannot be disguised or changed by outward appearances, such as clothing or social status

Just because she has a lot of money doesn't mean she's a good person; an ape is an ape, a varlet is a varlet, though they be clad in silk or scarlet.

used to emphasize that a person or creature's fundamental qualities and character are innate and unlikely to change, despite the passage of time or the influence of external factors

He might act like he's changed, but remember, a wolf may lose his teeth, but never his nature.

used to suggest that a person's inherent character or nature is unlikely to change, even with age or experience

It's hard to trust someone who has a history of deceit because a fox may grow grey, but never good.

used to suggest that certain qualities or abilities are innate and cannot be acquired through training or education

Some people are just naturally good at math, and no amount of practice can change that because it's a case of born, not made.

used to suggest that a person's innate qualities and traits have a greater impact on their development and behavior than external factors such as upbringing or environment

The coach believed that nature passes nurture, and that some athletes are just naturally more talented than others, regardless of their training and practice.

used to imply that a person's inherent character or nature cannot be changed by changing their external appearance or behavior

Don't be fooled by his attempts to appear trustworthy; a crow is never whiter for washing itself often.

used to imply that a foolish person will remain foolish no matter how many opportunities or experiences they have

My boss always says that send a fool to market and a fool he will return, whenever someone suggests training a difficult employee, because he believes that some people are just not capable of improving their skills or work ethic.

used to highlight the tendency of individuals to quickly lose interest or forget about something or someone they once cared deeply about

Maggie had been committed to a project, but when it became too challenging, she gave up and moved on, proving that a bellowing cow soon forgets her calf.

used to suggest that from the moment of our birth, we express dissatisfaction and continue to do so throughout our lives, often ending with unfulfilled expectations and disappointment

Despite all the success she's achieved, Mary always seems to find something to complain about.It's like she's never really happy with anything.We are born crying, live complaining, and die disappointed.

used to suggest that a person's innate tendencies or characteristics, inherited from their ancestors, will eventually become apparent in their actions or personality and are difficult to change

Despite her best efforts to be kind and compassionate, her innate selfishness couldn't be suppressed, proving that what is bred in the bone will come out in the flesh.