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a leopard cannot change its spots
a leopard cannot change its spots
01
used to imply that a person's fundamental nature or character is difficult and unlikely to change, even if they try
Proverb
What is the origin of the proverb "a leopard cannot change its spots" and when to use it?
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.
Examples
He promised to stop lying, but I am skeptical because a leopard cannot change its spots.
Nearby Words
