Cygan swymi dziećmi świadczy
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What it means
A Romani man testifies through his children — one’s character and values are revealed by how one’s children turn out.
English equivalent
The apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Vocabulary
- Cygan — Romani man (historical term)
- świadczyć — to testify, to bear witness, to demonstrate
- dzieci — children
Grammar note
'Swymi dziećmi' — instrumental plural of 'dzieci' with the reflexive possessive 'swój'.
Cultural context
An old proverb reflecting historical stereotypes. The underlying meaning is universal: parents are judged by their children's behaviour.
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