ProverbHuman Nature
English origin19th c.
English origin19th c.Blood will tell
Meaning: Family background and inherited character eventually show.
Example: “Her grandfather was a sea captain, and she sails like a pro; blood will tell.”
Origin: Based on the old belief that character is passed on in the blood. The saying is found from the 19th century.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Espèce de patate You dim bulb — a potato being the very picture of inert, unthinking stodginess.
- Quel râleur / quelle râleuse You never stop moaning — everything is a complaint, nothing is ever good enough.
- Peau de vache A mean, difficult, and unpleasant person — tough and unyielding like tanned hide.
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