Broda mędrcem nie czyni.
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What it means
“A beard does not make a wise man.” Appearance, even an appearance linked with age and wisdom, is no proof of intelligence or learning. Do not judge by looks.
English equivalent
A beard doesn't make a philosopher. / Don't judge a book by its cover.
Vocabulary
- broda — beard
- mędrzec — wise man, sage
- czynić — to make, to render
Grammar note
'Mędrcem' , instrumental of 'mędrzec', used after 'czynić' (to make someone something): 'nie czyni [kogoś] mędrcem'.
Cultural context
Beards were traditionally associated with scholars, elders, and Orthodox clergy, making this proverb a pointed deflation of assumed authority.
Beginner
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