Habit nie czyni mnicha.
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What it means
“The habit does not make the monk.” Outward appearance or clothing does not define a person’s true character or worth. Don’t judge by appearances.
English equivalent
The cowl does not make the monk. / Clothes don't make the man.
Vocabulary
- habit — monk's habit, robe
- czynić — to make, to do
- mnich — monk
Grammar note
'Habit' is the nominative subject. 'Mnicha' is the genitive after negation ('nie czyni' + genitive instead of accusative).
Cultural context
A proverb with roots in medieval monastic culture, widely known across European languages.
Beginner
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